The Value of Submission

In considering fellowship, we understand that there are different types of relationships between members of the Body of Christ. My relationships with younger college-age folks are much different than with elders in the Body of Christ.

A specific level of fellowship is submission.

Peter urges Elders to:

"Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away." 1 Peter 5:2-4

Peter goes on to encourage the young to submit to this shepherding oversight.

And to the young, the writer of Hebrews says:

"Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you." Hebrews 13:17

And the community functions as designed - a family atmosphere with loving elders who have experience and wisdom that only comes from time in faithful service to the Lord, and those younger submitting to their care, not out of obligation, but willingly.

It is not a concrete pecking order, but a living expression of life in an ordered Kingdom with God as our King.

In submission we entreat the influence of those who have gone before us who, by reason of experience, are equipped to help us because they've been there.

Mutual submission is the overriding principle (Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3).

Enjoy and value submission. Recognize the worth of this Godly discipline.