Scripture References: Acts 4:32-5:42; Romans 5:12, 17; Luke 9:23; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 2:21-23
Sermon Notes:
Intro: Continuing our series on the Mission of God, today we tackle Submission. We readily embrace Jesus as Savior (rescuing us), but often resist Him as Lord (requiring submission). If He's not Lord of all, He's not Lord at all. Submission involves yielding control, aligning our will with His, and extends to His delegated authorities (one another, leaders, government). This clashes with our cultural emphasis on rights and independence but is core to God's Kingdom and mission.
Key Points:
- Why Submission is Hard:
- Inherited Rebellion: Adam's disobedience brought a sin nature prone to rebellion (Rom 5:12).
- Pride: We often think we know better than those in authority.
- Cultural Ethos: American culture celebrates independence and challenging authority.
- Selfishness: We often resist submission when it conflicts with personal comfort or desires (disguised as exceptions like MLK/Holocaust, which were selfless).
- Past Hurts: Abuse of authority makes trusting and submitting difficult. (Answer: right use, not disposal).
- Redemption Through Submission:
- Adam vs. Christ: Adam's rebellion brought death; Christ's perfect submission/obedience brought life and redemption (Rom 5:17).
- Jesus' Example: He modeled submission ("I do nothing of myself... Thy will be done"), even submitting to flawed human authority as part of the Father's plan (1 Pet 2:21-23). Freedom is found in submission to Him.
- Cost: Submission means suffering (denying self). But non-submission also leads to suffering/death. Choosing God's way is better.
- Submission in Action (Acts 4-5): Submission is tested not in easy agreement (Acts 4 unity) but in difficulty:
- Little Things Matter (Acts 5:1-11): Ananias & Sapphira died for lying about their offering, not the amount. God takes "little" sins (dishonesty, hidden thoughts) seriously. Are we submitted in unseen, practical areas?
- Miraculous Things (Acts 5:12-16): Are we submitted when God asks us to do impossible things (pray for healing, share faith)? Do we obey despite inadequacy?
- Suffering (Acts 5:17-42): Apostles jailed, freed by angel, told to go back and preach again (knowing it meant suffering). They obeyed God over human threats, even rejoicing in suffering for Jesus. Are we willing to obey if it costs us or leads back into difficulty?
- Obedience Brings the Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers and comforts those who obey, especially in suffering (Acts 5:32). Choosing self-comfort forfeits His comfort and power.
Conclusion: True Lordship demands submission – in the small, unseen details; in stepping out for the miraculous; and even through suffering. This path, modeled by Christ, is difficult but leads to true life and empowers participation in God's mission, fueled by His Spirit.
Call to Action:
- Examine Resistance: Where do you resist Jesus' Lordship – little things, big risks, suffering?
- Repent: Turn from rebellion, pride, fear, or prioritizing comfort over obedience.
- Submit Afresh: Consciously yield practical areas, willingness to risk, and responses during suffering to Christ's Lordship.
- Ask for Power: Pray for the Holy Spirit's help to obey and trust Him, especially when it's hard.
- Respond: Stand if you desire to submit speci
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