Submission in Marriage: A Divine Design, Not a Worldly Misconception

In today’s world, the concept of submission in marriage is often misunderstood, misrepresented, and at times, even feared. Modern narratives sometimes brandish submission as a form of oppression, especially toward women. However, when viewed through the lens of biblical teachings, submission is a profound act of love, respect, and mutual honor. Far from being a curse, it is a blessing designed by God to bring harmony and joy to the marital relationship. The Bible offers numerous examples of men and women of God who lived out this principle, demonstrating that true submission is rooted in love, humility, and trust in God’s design.

1. Sarah and Abraham: Submission Rooted in Faith (1 Peter 3:5-6)

Sarah, the wife of Abraham, is one of the most prominent examples of submission in the Bible. In 1 Peter 3:5-6, Peter refers to her as a model for Christian wives. Sarah submitted to Abraham, not out of weakness, but out of deep faith in God’s promise. When Abraham told her to say she was his sister to protect his life (Genesis 12:10-20), Sarah complied, trusting God to take care of her. Despite Abraham’s misjudgment, God protected Sarah and fulfilled His promise to make her the mother of nations. Sarah’s submission was not blind obedience but a faithful trust in God’s overarching plan, showing that true submission is intertwined with faith and trust in God.

2. Ruth and Naomi: Submission through Loyalty and Love (Ruth 1:16-17)

Ruth’s story is a beautiful depiction of submission through loyalty and love. After the death of her husband, Ruth chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, despite Naomi’s urging to return to her own people. Ruth’s famous declaration, “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay,” (Ruth 1:16-17) reflects her submission not only to Naomi but to God’s will for her life. Ruth’s decision led her to Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer, and ultimately into the lineage of Christ. Her submission was blessed with love, security, and a place in God’s redemptive plan.

3. Esther and King Ahasuerus: Submission with Courage and Purpose (Esther 4:15-16)

Esther’s submission to her husband, King Ahasuerus, was marked by courage and purpose. When Mordecai urged her to intercede for her people, Esther initially hesitated because approaching the king uninvited could result in death. However, she ultimately submitted to her role as queen and risked her life, saying, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). Esther’s submission was not passive; it was an active, courageous decision to fulfill God’s purpose for her life, demonstrating that submission can be both powerful and purposeful.

4. Mary and Joseph: Submission in the Face of the Unfathomable (Luke 1:38)

Mary, the mother of Jesus, is perhaps the most profound example of submission in the Bible. When the angel Gabriel told her she would conceive by the Holy Spirit and bear the Son of God, Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38). Despite the potential for scandal, disgrace, and the unknown, Mary submitted to God’s will with humility and grace. Her submission brought forth the Savior of the world, highlighting the divine blessing that accompanies true submission.

5. Jesus Christ: The Ultimate Example of Submission (Philippians 2:5-8)

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the ultimate example of submission. Though He was in the form of God, He did not consider equality with God something to be grasped. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, and became obedient to death—even death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8). Jesus submitted to the will of His Father, not out of obligation, but out of love for humanity. His submission brought salvation to the world, showing that submission is not only a blessing but also a powerful force for redemption and transformation.

Why Submission is a Blessing, Not a Curse

Biblical submission is not about power dynamics or control; it is about mutual respect, love, and fulfilling God’s design for marriage. Ephesians 5:21-33 describes a reciprocal submission in marriage where both husband and wife submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. The husband is called to love his wife as Christ loved the church—sacrificially and selflessly—while the wife is called to submit to her husband as the church submits to Christ. This mutual submission fosters a relationship where both parties thrive, leading to a marriage that is a blessing, not a curse.

In conclusion, submission in marriage, as outlined in the Bible, is a sacred and divine principle that, when understood and practiced correctly, leads to harmony, joy, and fulfillment. It is a profound expression of love and trust in God’s perfect plan, a blessing that enriches the marital relationship and brings glory to God.