Joyful submission to those placed over us – whether it be our parents, the government, or husband – primarily stems from proper submission to our merciful God. To study this truth, let’s re-examine our belief in the Gospel!
Gospel 101
“For by one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.” Hebrews 10:14
Savor this fact: Jesus’ death on the cross was the most pivotal moment in history. Why?
In one single act He was able to satisfy the wrath of God that was to bring justice against sinful humanity. Yet, from the days of the Old Testament to our modern era, people have repeatedly attempted to make themselves right before God in vain.
Whether one has low standards or high standards for goodness, no one reaches the height of God the Father’s righteousness. The blood from a bull, a million confessions, a loving heart 99% of the time is not enough.
In the end, no matter the moral character we wish to have or claim to have, a tremendous chasm divides us from God when depending on our own efforts. His perfect sacrifice through Jesus Christ the Son, however, is able to atone for our sins.
Sin essentially means “to be APART FROM God.” Praise God that with faith in the Messiah Jesus, we are able to fall under His cloak of righteousness and be sanctified with His perfect power. We are reunited with our Maker.
Isn’t it wonderful then, that sanctification means “to be set APART FOR God?”
That is the power of faith in the cross; that we may be worthy of being in God’s presence, and instead of being divided from Him we are abiding in Him.
“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:22-23
True Discipleship
To many, this Gospel makes sense. It seems true. It is accepted as a salvation orchestrated by God. The crucial second step, then, is if a person is willing to submit to God and His Word.
If we finally grasp who Jesus is, there is no greater danger than to turn away from Him—the greatest sacrifice, the most loving Redeemer.
What good comes from understanding the Truth, and then rejecting or forgetting His power and direction? Especially when it is God offering a chance to be with Him, a God worthy of every praise? (Hebrews 10:26-31).
“For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.” Hebrews 10:26-27
For many the Gospel’s truth and grace are seen, but there is no response, no repentance from wrongdoing, no service through the Holy Spirit.
The heart remains stone, an enemy to submission. Worldly desires continue to cloud over one’s discernment, and puff up one’s pride.
Freedom is not seen as the blessed freedom from sin, but reverts back to the dark ability to do whatever sin. A person is as she was before, the Gospel but a memory. When this happens, when the Gospel is abandoned, the beautiful protection from God’s holy judgment was never truly realized.
Opposite of this, in verses Hebrews 10:22-23, it is said that genuine believers move forward with earnest hearts, in complete confidence that the Gospel is not only going to save our souls, but going to transform our earthly lives.
Genuine believers know the Gospel will not only save their souls, but transform their lives. Share on XThe Good News is a true hope to live under, and it is a hope that purifies. It requires submission to the Holy One’s commandments and plans.
For the Christian, it is often a struggle to submit and commit joyfully to God across the pains, distractions, and persecutions in life. This idea of “sincere heart” is what I often question for myself.
I try to avoid sin, but in that lifestyle, am I actively thirsting for God? Waiting for my Savior with eagerness? Treasuring His commands and relying upon His promises? At times I feel my faith is restless or routine. This prayer helps me to combat spiritual stagnancy and submit.
Pray with me:
Dear Lord,
Renew a right spirit within me! I want to be saturated in the joy of my salvation, in the hope of Your return! Holy Spirit fill me, even as I type these words, make a video, chat with friends, eat dinner… from waking until sleeping! I pray that Your Word will continue to build in me a fire for Your glory!
I pray that this could be shared in fellowship, and that others who are rejoicing in Your presence would be an encouragement! Forgive me for my jealousy for those who are joyous in You, forgive me for my lukewarmness! Allow me to be fully assured by the Gospel daily, and for my heart to be sincere in all my acts of praise. Let my soul focus on You Lord!
Amen.
What a great connection I never considered before! At the root Salvation is humility. Humility compels us to submit for Christ for the greater good of his kingdom. Thank you for this reminder today.
This was a good read and I love your graphics. Thanks for sharing this idea of salvation through submission!
I appreciate the kind words Nicki!
Loved this!!!! What a great post!!!
Aw, thanks Diane. Glad it resonated with you!