Overview:
Ephesians 5:21–24
Some sections of Scripture seem more like a minefield littered with explosives than a treasure chest full of truth. One such section of Scripture deals with the topic of a wife submitting to her husband. We step into it with the full understanding that the topic is known for flaring tempers and causing misunderstandings. Rather than ignoring it, how much more does this passage cry out for a level-headed approach informed by historical, cultural, and biblical contexts? So let’s tackle the question: What does submission really mean?
Message Summary:
In “What Submission Really Means,” Pastor Chuck Swindoll addresses one of the most controversial and misunderstood topics in the Bible. Recognizing that the concept of submission is often viewed as a “minefield” of potential conflict, Swindoll provides a level-headed, biblical perspective that clears away cultural baggage. This message emphasizes that biblical submission is not about inferiority or suppression, but is a voluntary, Spirit-led response within the context of a loving relationship, modeled first by our mutual submission to one another in Ch
Message Key Facts:
- The Context of Mutual Submission: The command for wives to submit (v. 22) is preceded by a universal command for all believers to “be subject to one another in the fear of Christ” (v. 21).
- Voluntary Action: Biblical submission is a volitional act of the will, not something “demanded” or “enforced” by a husband; it is a gift given to the relationship.
- Equality of Personhood: Submission in function does not imply inequality in value. Just as Christ is equal to the Father yet submits to His will, a wife’s submission is a matter of order, not worth.
- The Spirit’s Power: True submission is a “fruit” of being filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18); it is impossible to sustain in human strength alone.
- A Divine Picture: The relationship between a husband and wife is intended to be a living illustration of the relationship between Christ and His Church.
Message References:
1. The Universal Requirement (Ephesians 5:21)
Swindoll begins by clarifying that submission is a Christian grace required of everyone. Before Paul speaks to specific roles, he establishes that every believer should have a servant’s heart toward others.
2. The Specific Instruction (Ephesians 5:22)
The message tackles the “explosive” verse directly.
- “As to the Lord”: A wife’s submission to her husband is primarily an act of worship and obedience to Jesus Christ.
- The Scope: Submission is described as being “in everything,” which Swindoll carefully qualifies as being within the bounds of God’s moral law.
3. The Pattern of Headship (Ephesians 5:23)
Paul defines the husband as the “head” of the wife, just as Christ is the head of the church.
- Protection, Not Production: Headship is characterized by Christ’s role as “Savior of the body”—it is a role of sacrifice, protection, and provision, not dictatorial control.
4. The Response of the Church (Ephesians 5:24)
The church’s relationship to Christ serves as the ultimate model. As the church finds its safety and mission in Christ’s leadership, a wife is called to find harmony in her husband’s godly leadership.
Primary Scripture References
- Ephesians 5:21–24: The central passage defining the meaning and motivation of submission.
- 1 Peter 3:1–6: Peter’s instructions on the “gentle and quiet spirit” that characterizes godly submission.
- Colossians 3:18: A parallel command to be subject to husbands “as is fitting in the Lord.”
- Philippians 2:5–8: The ultimate example of Christ’s voluntary submission and humility.
Practical Application
To understand and apply biblical submission in a healthy way, women are encouraged to:
- Start with the Spirit: Do not attempt to “submit” out of duty; first, ensure you are walking in the fullness and power of the Holy Spirit.
- Focus on Motivation: Remember that your primary “audience” is the Lord. Submitting “as to the Lord” changes the motivation from pleasing a person to honoring God.
- Define Terms Biblically: Reject secular definitions of submission that imply “doormat” behavior or loss of identity. Embrace the biblical definition of “ordered strength.”
- Communicate Openly: A healthy marriage requires dialogue. Submission does not mean silence; it means contributing your wisdom while respecting the final weight of leadership.
