Submission

1 Peter 5:5

We have here a continuation of the ecclesiastical use of the word elder (as found in verse 1).

The word younger is also translated in many cases as new. This would easily pertain to new converts, as well as the young people of the congregation.

I. SUBMISSION IS PROPERLY THE PLACING OF ONESELF UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF ANOTHER.

A. A willful obedience to the command of God.

B. To trust yourself in the care of another.

1) Without explanation.

2) Without satisfaction.

II. SUBMISSION IS ORDERLY IN THE SIGHT OF GOD.

A. Does not infer unequal ness.

B. Does however dictate order.

The verse seems to say that we are to be subject to one another. That would be fine in a generic understanding of the word subject as the term respect. There is no doubt that places in the N.T. lean toward this understanding. But, when we are dealing with the specifics of the words subject ( υποτασω) and another (αλληλων), we understand more of the specifics.

Subject = authority over.

Another = mutually, reciprocally, of another of the same standing.

In this case we are talking about the subjection to the Elders. Therefore not a general subjection of everyone to another but of everyone to those they are to be in subject to. See 1 Peter 2:13-18 & Romans 13:7

III. SUBMISSION IN IT’S PUREST SENSE.

A. It takes for granted the integrity of the one to whom subjection is given.

Elders must meet the requirements of the previous verses, and if they don’t they are to be reprimanded before all according to 1 Timothy 5:19

B. It does not give “anyone” the right to withhold subjection.

God is the judge of these matters and has relegated judgment to proper means within the church.

People are always justified in their own eyes! For this reason subjection is mandatory.

C. It falls under the guidance of the church.

When the one subjecting becomes the one abused, then it becomes a matter for proper church authority, to intervene and bring relief!