Submission to authority is a topic discussed in the Bible. Today, we’ll explore scriptures that teach the importance of submitting to authority while also emphasizing the need for discernment and integrity in doing so.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Leadership Qualities
Bible Verses About Submitting To Authority
Romans 13:1
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities. As Christians, we are called to respect and obey those in positions of authority, recognizing that they have been appointed by God.
By submitting to authority, we demonstrate our trust in God’s sovereignty and His ability to work through human institutions. However, it is important to note that our submission to authority does not excuse us from following God’s commands. If an authority directs us to go against God’s word, we must prioritize our obedience to Him.
1 Peter 2:13-14
“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.”
In this passage, Peter encourages believers to submit to every human authority. This submission is not based on the character or actions of those in authority, but out of reverence for the Lord.
By submitting to authority, we can bring honor to God and demonstrate His character to the world. It is through our submission that we can reflect Christ’s humility and display the transformative power of the Gospel.
Ephesians 6:5-6
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.”
These verses specifically address slaves and their role in submitting to their masters. However, the principles can be applied to all forms of employment or relationships with authority figures.
Our obedience to those in authority should not solely be for personal gain or recognition, but as an act of obedience to God. When we submit with sincerity and from our hearts, we bring glory to Him and reflect His character to those around us.
Hebrews 13:17
“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.”
In this verse, believers are encouraged to have confidence in their leaders and submit to their authority. By doing so, we can make their work a joy rather than a burden.
Submitting to authority with a positive attitude and a willingness to support and encourage our leaders can create an environment of unity and cooperation. It allows leaders to fulfill their responsibilities effectively and benefits the entire community.
Titus 3:1
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.”
This verse instructs believers to be subject to rulers and authorities, emphasizing the importance of obedience. As Christians, we are called to be law-abiding citizens and to willingly comply with the regulations and laws of our society.
Our obedience to authority should extend to all areas of our lives, including our interactions with the government, employers, and other figures of authority. This obedience demonstrates our commitment to representing Christ in our actions and brings glory to God.
Colossians 3:22
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.”
Similar to the passage in Ephesians, this verse addresses slaves and their obedience to their masters. However, the principle of sincere obedience extends to all our interactions with authority figures.
Our obedience should not be dependent on the presence or attention of those in authority but motivated by our reverence for the Lord. When we obey with sincerity, we demonstrate our trust in God’s providence and His ability to use even imperfect authorities for His purposes.
Acts 5:29
“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!’”
This verse presents a crucial exception to the principle of submitting to authority. When a human authority commands us to act contrary to God’s will, we are called to obey God above all else.
As Christians, our ultimate allegiance is not to any earthly authority, but to our Heavenly Father. We are to prioritize obedience to God’s commands, even if it means facing opposition or persecution from those in authority.
Matthew 22:21
“Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”
In this verse, Jesus teaches about the distinction between earthly authority and our ultimate allegiance to God. While we are called to submit to human authorities, we must remember that our ultimate loyalty belongs to God alone.
We are to fulfill our obligations as responsible citizens, paying taxes and abiding by the laws of the land. However, we should always prioritize our relationship with God and prioritize His will in every aspect of our lives.
Proverbs 24:21
“Fear the LORD and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials.”
This verse encourages us to fear the Lord and respect the authority of the king. It serves as a reminder that our submission to authority should be marked by reverence and an attitude of respect.
We are called to refrain from joining in rebellion or disobedience against those in authority, recognizing that such actions go against God’s commands. Instead, we should seek to honor Him by respecting and following the established authorities.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
These verses highlight the importance of praying for those in authority, including kings and all those in power. Through our prayers, we can actively seek God’s guidance and blessing upon those in positions of authority.
Our prayers can contribute to the establishment of peaceful and quiet lives, promoting an atmosphere conducive to the pursuit of godliness and holiness. By praying for those in authority, we fulfill our role as agents of change and hope in the world.
Titus 3:2
“to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.”
In this verse, believers are called to exhibit a Christlike character in their interactions with others, including those in authority. We are to refrain from slander, promoting peace, and demonstrating gentleness and considerateness.
Our conduct towards authority figures should reflect the love and grace that we have received from God. By displaying these virtues, we can impact the lives of others positively and potentially open doors for witnessing the transformative power of the Gospel.
James 4:7
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
While this verse does not directly address submitting to human authority, it emphasizes the importance of submitting to God. By submitting to God and resisting the temptations of the devil, we can experience spiritual victory and freedom.
Submission to God ultimately influences our response to human authority. When our hearts are surrendered to God, we can trust Him to guide our actions and attitudes towards those in authority, enabling us to navigate such relationships with wisdom and grace.
1 Peter 5:5-6
“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
These verses emphasize the importance of humility and submission in our interactions with authority figures and elders. Humility is a characteristic that pleases God and allows Him to work in and through our lives.
By humbling ourselves under God’s mighty hand, we acknowledge His sovereignty and invite His favor upon us. This attitude of humility also enables us to submit to those in authority, recognizing that our position and authority come from God alone.
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”
In this verse, believers are encouraged to remember and imitate their spiritual leaders who have spoken the Word of God. By reflecting upon their lives and faith, we can learn valuable lessons and follow their example.
Submitting to the authority of our spiritual leaders involves honoring their teachings, seeking their guidance, and imitating their faith. In doing so, we position ourselves to grow spiritually and deepen our relationship with God.
1 Peter 2:18
“Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate but also to those who are harsh.”
Similar to the earlier verses about slaves and masters, this passage highlights the importance of submitting to authority, even when it is difficult. As slaves, they were called to submit to their masters, regardless of their treatment.
In our own lives, we may encounter situations where those in authority are harsh, unkind, or unfair. However, our response should be marked by reverence for God, demonstrating a Christlike attitude of submission and respect.
1 Timothy 6:1
“All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered.”
In this verse, Paul instructs slaves to show full respect to their masters. This demonstration of respect is not based on the actions or character of their masters, but on the desire to honor God and uphold the testimony of their faith.
By respecting and submitting to those in authority, even in challenging circumstances, we reflect the character of Christ and preserve the integrity of the Gospel. Our obedience can have a profound impact on the lives of those around us, drawing them closer to a relationship with Christ.
Matthew 23:10
“Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah.”
This verse addresses the issue of titles and positions of authority within the church. Jesus instructs His disciples not to seek titles or exalt themselves, for they have only one true Instructor and authority – Jesus Himself.
As followers of Christ, our ultimate loyalty is to Him alone. We must be cautious not to idolize or elevate human leaders above Jesus. While respecting and submitting to authority within the church is important, our primary focus should always be on our relationship with Jesus and following His teachings.
2 Corinthians 10:5
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
This verse speaks to the authority we have as believers to demolish arguments and thoughts that oppose the knowledge of God. Through the power of Christ, we can take captive our thoughts and align them with His truth.
By submitting our thoughts and beliefs to the authority of Christ, we guard ourselves against worldly influences and adhere to His teachings. This enables us to navigate the various authorities and perspectives present in our lives with discernment and wisdom.
1 Peter 3:22
“who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.”
This verse highlights the ultimate authority of Jesus Christ. As believers, we are called to recognize His supremacy and lordship over all authorities, including angels, powers, and human authorities.
By submitting to Christ, we acknowledge His rightful place in our lives and surrender our own will to His. This sets the foundation for our submission to earthly authorities, as our obedience is ultimately based on our allegiance to Him.
Acts 4:19-20
“But Peter and John replied, ‘Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.’”
In this passage, Peter and John respond to the authority figures questioning and instructing them. They assert that, ultimately, they must prioritize obedience to God and proclaiming the truth of what they have witnessed.
When faced with conflicts between human authority and God’s commands, we must choose to obey God rather than individuals or institutions. Our allegiance to Him takes precedence over all else. However, our response should be characterized by love and respect, even when facing opposition.
Romans 13:5
“Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.”
This verse highlights the significance of submitting to authorities not only out of fear of punishment but also as a matter of conscience. Our submission to authority should be motivated by our desire to honor God and maintain a clear conscience before Him.
By willingly submitting to those in authority, we demonstrate our understanding of God’s command to respect and obey human institutions. This honors God and contributes to the building of a society that reflects His principles and values.
What Does the Bible Say About Submitting To Authority?
In the Bible, there are several passages that instruct us to submit to authority. One of the most well-known is found in Romans 13:1-2, which tells us that all authority is instituted by God and therefore we should submit to those in authority over us. This includes not only governmental authority but also other forms of authority, such as employers, parents, and church leaders.
Another passage that addresses this is found in 1 Peter 2:13-17, where we are encouraged to submit to every human authority for the Lord’s sake, whether to the emperor as the supreme authority or to governors who are sent by him. This passage also emphasizes that doing good while suffering unjustly is commendable before God.
Furthermore, in Ephesians 6:1-3, children are specifically instructed to obey their parents in the Lord, for this is right. This is the first commandment with a promise, that it may go well with them and that they may live long in the land.
It’s important to note that our submission to authority is ultimately out of reverence and obedience to God. However, this submission does not mean blind obedience to sinful commands. We see examples in the Bible, such as Peter and John in Acts 4:19, where they chose to obey God rather than human authority when the two were in conflict.
Ultimately, as Christians, our attitude towards submission to authority should reflect Christ’s humility and obedience, seeking to honor God in our conduct towards all forms of authority.
So, as believers, we are called to obey and submit to authority as long as it does not lead us to disobey God’s commands. Our submission to authority not only reflects our reverence for God but also serves as a testimony of our faith in Him.