The first known submarine is traced to a report from 1562. It describes two Greeks who submerged and resurfaced multiple times without getting wet and with the flame they carried remaining alight. Since then, there have been many innovations on the submarine, and they now range widely in size and length of time they can remain underwater. The Russian typhoon class submarines are the largest ever built and they are capable of staying submerged for six months. The defining characteristic of a submarine is the ability to operate and propel itself under the surface of the water.
In order to live effectively as a follower of Jesus, we must live under the authority of Jesus. Practically living as a Christian requires being submitted to God’s authority. God has complete authority over all things, and he has established different institutions that reflect His authority. One of these institutions is the government. God has placed human authorities on this earth under His Kingship. Recognizing God’s role in establishing governments, 1 Peter 2:13-17 shows us how obeying earthly authorities is a way we can display the kingdom of God.
13 Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. – 1 Peter 2:13-17
From these five verses, we see four reasons for submission:
- We submit for God’s sake
Submission is denying ourselves and realizing that we do not have to have our own way. It is recognizing an authority that is greater than our own desires. Since God puts human authority in place, we submit to them as an expression of worship to Him.
- We submit to God’s will
God’s will is for us to do good, which includes being good citizens. Living in submission to God and human authorities makes us a blessing to the people around us. As we live in obedience, we represent God and contribute the spiritual and physical welfare of our communities.
- We submit because we are free
Our freedom in Christ is meant to strengthen our obedience in righteousness, not justify further sin. As we walk in submission, God works in our hearts to align our desires with His. We begin to long for righteousness and detest sin. We choose to do what is right, including willingly submitting to human authorities.
- We submit to display the Character of God
Our submission to God will be evident in the way we live and relate to others. We will honor and respect everyone as image bearers of God, we will love other believers as we are united in Christ, and we will honor and pray for our leaders. All of these things will flow from a reverence and awe of God.
Obeying earthy authorities as an expression of obedience and worship to God, who is our highest authority, displays the kingdom of God here on earth. We can only operate as followers of Jesus when we live under the authority of God.