Our previous discussions on Christian obedience have centered on the family, the fundamental unit of God’s design. Now, our focus expands to a broader community: the church. This spiritual household is where our faith is nurtured and put into practice. The concept of obedience within the church isn’t about submitting to human whim, but about recognizing and respecting the leadership that God has established for our spiritual well-being. This article explores why this obedience is so vital and what the Bible says about the qualities of those who lead.
The Divine Design of Obedience in the Church
The idea of submitting to authority can be difficult in cultures that champions individualism. However, the Bible consistently presents obedience to church leadership not as a sign of weakness, but as an act of faith and a path to spiritual maturity. Our submission is not to fallible individuals, but to God’s own wise and loving design for His church.
For Spiritual Protection and Oversight
A primary reason for obedience is spiritual protection.
Hebrews 13:17:
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account.”
Church leaders are appointed by God to serve as: spiritual shepherds, guarding the flock from error and harm. Their guidance is a divine safeguard intended to keep us on the path of truth. By submitting to their counsel, we show our trust in God’s provision for our spiritual well-being. To resist this authority is to put ourselves at risk, much like a sheep straying from its shepherd.
For Unity and Order within the Community
Submission also fosters unity and order within the church. The Apostle Paul describes the church as a body (1 Corinthians 12), with each member having a unique and vital function. This body can only work together effectively when there is proper order and mutual humility. 1 Peter 5:5 instructs believers,
“You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but He gives grace to the humble.”
Humility is the foundation of a healthy community, preventing discord and promoting a shared focus on Christ. Disobedience, born of pride, fragments the body and hinders its mission.
As a Reflection of Our Obedience to Christ
Ultimately, our obedience to church leaders is a direct reflection of our obedience to God Himself. When we honor the authority He has established, we are honoring Him. The example of Jesus, who came to serve rather than be served. Mark 10:45, is the ultimate model for all relationships within the church. By humbly following the godly direction of our leaders, we demonstrate our faith in God’s wisdom and our commitment to His kingdom. Our obedience not only brings spiritual benefit to our own lives but also encourages those who labor faithfully in leadership.Our obedience within the church reflects our submission to God’s wise design. He has established leaders and structures to nurture our spiritual growth and well-being
Obedience within the church is a vital part of our Christian life, not an outdated idea. As we have seen, this submission is rooted in God’s wise plan for our spiritual well-being. It is meant to provide spiritual protection, as our leaders
- “keep watch over our souls” (Hebrews 13:17),
- and to promote unity and order within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12; 1 Peter 5:5).
- Ultimately, this obedience serves as a powerful reflection of our obedience to Christ himself, who came to serve (Mark 10:45).
This submission, however, is not a blind act. While we honor the role of leadership, we are also called to be discerning, ensuring that a leader’s character and teaching always align with the unchanging truth of God’s Word. This leads us to our next crucial topic: a “Call to Discernment,” where we will explore how to be watchful and wise in our submission, so that our loyalty remains with God and His truth above all else.
Thank you so much for your support and for joining us today. As you go, may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him (Romans 15:13). Your encouragement helps us continue to share His truth. We invite you to remain connected with our community and look forward to our next time together.
