Ephesians 5:21
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
While this is on the topic of submission, I’m going to focus on the reason provided, out of reverence for Christ. Yesterday I wrote about Exodus 20:20, Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.” The Old Testament and New Testament “fear of God” and “reverence for Christ” feel very difference. In the Old Testament, the people were afraid of dying the presence of God was so overwhelming. In the New Testament, we hear that Jesus loves us and lives within us. This is also true. In the Old Testament, God’s revelation of Himself was much earlier. The people didn’t have a conception of His holiness and His awesomeness. In the New Testament, we know this. We are to keep the New Testament feel, but keep in mind who we are talking about.
I think of when Lucy asked who Aslan was in the Chronicles of Narnia. Here’s the response: ‘Aslan is a lion – the Lion, the great Lion.” “Ooh!” said Susan. “I’d thought he was a man. Is he – quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion.” “That you will, dearie, and no mistake,” said Mrs. Beaver; “if there’s anyone who can appear before Aslan without their knees knocking, they’re either braver than most or else just silly.” “Then he isn’t safe?” said Lucy. “Safe?” said Mr. Beaver; “don’t you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? Of Course he isn’t safe. But he is good.” ‘
When we accept Christ, we aren’t inviting a “Mr. Rogers” type character into our hearts, He is God. The lion analogy is great. While He’s not a wild lion that will eat us, He can’t be confined and controlled.
We are to keep this in mind when we hear the phrase, “out of reverence for Christ”. The short verse above is about submission. This has become a cultural hot potato. However, it isn’t optional. We are to do it, because we fear God. When we accept Christ, we crown Him Lord and savior. The Lord means He’s the boss. He is both or neither. The phrase “no, Lord”, isn’t an option. God knows us and is patient. He knows there is plenty of fear and anxiety. He will help us bring down our defenses or whatever it is that causes us concern.
The meaning of submission has been twisted. Some want it as a reason to support their lazy, bossy manner. Those who do so miss that we are to submit to one another. We’ll get deeper into what it is next time.
Lord, thank You that You are concerned about our relationships. Having a submissive attitude regulates the ego and self interest. Help us to fear You and learn to submit to one another.