Uncommonಮಾದರಿ

"To no one will We sell, to no one will We deny or delay, right or justice.” The Magna Carta

The historical Magna Carta was drafted in 1215, which later would be classified as human rights. Those human rights included the church’s separation from government, citizens to own property, and equality under the law. Essentially, it is how humans should treat humans. Before the Magna Carta, the Apostle Paul wrote the “of God” standard for every human relationship.

“Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Ephesians 5:21

Submission will be the most challenging concept we tackle in this book. The reason is that our current society of America focuses inordinately on our liberties. Not our fundamental human rights but our liberties. Our “do whatever we want” or “do what is beneficial for ourselves” liberties are the status quo of America right now. God wants us to think beyond our civil liberties and to practice life where we subject ourselves to one another.

Unfortunately, this is a complicated topic because we live in a post-slavery culture. So, the words “submit” and “subject” bear harsh connotations compared to what Paul originally intended. There is a natural aversion to this concept because our ancestors have abused it. Let’s look at the root concept of these words; let’s unlearn to relearn.

What does it mean to be subject to one another as initially intended by God? To place and arrange your life under the influence and concern of others. Being subject to one another is asking how your life, words, and actions impact the lives around you and choosing to be concerned and involved with others by aligning my life with theirs. I align with others because of what God has done for me.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. What comes into your mind when you see the word submission?
2. What do you think God has in mind with the word submission?
3. How can you partner with the people in your small group to think rightly about this “negative word”?