Yes, yet another post masquerading as a PDF attachment. I recognize that my posts are generally overly long and difficult to read on a forum screen. That is why I attach the bulk of my posts as PDF documents. This allows readers to download and scan the post. If they find little to no value in it, they can delete it; if they see some value in it, they can save it.
So, here is yet another submission for your review and consideration: The Question of Submission.
Excellent, challenging post. This is right on target. You addressed the natural tension between cultural pride and biblical obedience in such a way that
most people will see themselves somewhere in your list of examples. The truth is, we live in a world that encourages autonomy and “self-rule” (“I’m the captain of my soul”). But Scripture calls for the exact opposite. Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow me (Luke 9:23). Submission is not only an outward behavior, it is an issue of the heart. As you correctly noted, rebellion is not always loud and blaring. It is quite subtle, and it can hide behind an activity that otherwise appears quite religious or spiritual (church attendance, “good works,” “outward morality” and so on), even as it still fails to relinquish control to the Lord.
I also greatly appreciated your Scripture-centered approach. In particular, the notes on Luke 6: 46 and 1 John 3:4 are right on target.
We cannot call Jesus “Lord” and yet not do what He says (cf. John 14:21). Submission to God, to His Word, and to godly leadership (so long as it remains fully bound by the Word of God) is an indispensable component of genuine discipleship.
One note of caution (and it is a small one) is that while the quote from
Watchman Nee at the beginning is right on target, his overall body of work is deeply rooted in mysticism and extra-biblical movements which are not in alignment with Sola Scriptura. Nee’s particular words will require additional testing in light of the Word of God, just as everything else must (Acts 17:11). The Bible is our final authority, and we must not go beyond it.
This is a much-needed, convicting message for the church today. The call to genuine submission (not because we “should,” but because we love Christ and desire to know Him more) is the only way to true spiritual health. Thank you for putting this into words.
