SUBMISSION ACCORDING TO BIBLICAL PATRIARCHY – SHORT VERSION

Written by Abrie JF Kilian

This is a shortened version of a more complete version that can be found here.

In contemporary culture, "submission" often evokes notions of oppression or inequality. Yet, in the Biblical framework, submission reflects discipline, love, reverence, and divine order. The Biblical model, misunderstood by many, is centred on YHWH as the ultimate patriarch, men humbly submitting to Him, wives submitting to husbands in love and trust, and children honouring their parents. This design fosters flourishing families and communities aligned with YHWH's will.

YHWH as the Absolute Patriarch

YHWH stands as the supreme authority, depicted as Father (Isaiah 64:8; Matthew 6:9), sovereign King (1 Timothy 1:17), and perfect Husband (Jeremiah 31:32). His moral law (Exodus 20:1-17) and commands govern creation with compassion and justice (Lamentations 3:22-23). This recognition helps us see all human authority as stewardship under His loving leadership.

Men Submitting to YHWH

Men are called to submit to YHWH’s authority, acknowledging their leadership role as one of service and stewardship. As Paul states, “the head of every man is Messiah” (1 Corinthians 11:3). Men must model Messiah’s sacrificial love, as seen in His washing of the disciples’ feet (John 13:1-17) and His ultimate sacrifice (Ephesians 5:25). Submission to YHWH involves living according to His Word (Psalm 119:9-16) and serving as conduits of His grace and authority.

Women Submitting to Their Husbands

Biblical submission by wives to their husbands (Ephesians 5:22) reflects trust in YHWH’s design and the husband’s sanctified leadership. Far from erasing a wife’s intellect or gifts, this submission mirrors the assembly's submission to Messiah (Ephesians 5:24), as husbands are commanded to love sacrificially (Ephesians 5:25-33). Women like Sarah, Abigail, and Deborah exemplify strength and wisdom harmonized with submission.

Children Submitting to Their Parents

Children’s obedience to parents (Ephesians 6:1) is foundational for their development of respect for authority and discipline. Parents, guided by love and wisdom (Proverbs 22:6), model YHWH’s character, creating a stable environment for spiritual growth.

The Rationale for Biblical Patriarchy

Biblical patriarchy reflects YHWH’s order, beginning with creation, where Adam’s leadership was established (Genesis 2:16-18). Men, as heads of households, are tasked with protecting, providing for, and spiritually leading their families in a manner that reflects YHWH’s character—patient, just, and merciful (Psalm 103:8). Authority must always align with accountability to YHWH.

Submission Is Not Inferiority

Submission, in the Biblical sense, is about role and order, not value or worth. Yahshua ha’Messiah Himself submitted to the Father’s will (John 6:38), modelling perfect obedience. Husbands and wives, though equal in worth (Galatians 3:28), have distinct, complementary roles that ensure harmony and growth within the family.

Practical Implications for Families and Society

Families flourish when fathers lead with care, mothers support with respect, and children honour their parents. This structure reduces chaos, fosters stability, and prepares individuals to respect authority in broader society. While submission to civil authority must be tempered by obedience to YHWH (Acts 5:29), Biblical submission fosters peace and order.

Misuse and Restoration of Authority

Abuses of authority stem from sinful distortions of YHWH’s design. Scripture condemns such behaviour and upholds accountability (1 Peter 3:7; Ephesians 6:4). The solution lies not in abandoning the Biblical model but in restoring it to its intended purpose through repentance, counsel, and the pursuit of YHWH’s wisdom.

The Beauty of Biblical Submission

When practised properly, Biblical submission within a patriarchal framework reflects YHWH’s divine order, fostering love, peace, and growth. Marriage serves as an analogy for Messiah’s relationship with the assembly (Ephesians 5:31-32). Men mirror Messiah’s love, women respond with grace, and children grow in obedience, forming a living testimony of the gospel.

Living It Out

Living according to Biblical patriarchy demands spiritual maturity, prayer, and adherence to YHWH’s Word. Men must lead with humility, women must embrace their roles with joy, and children must learn obedience. Repentance and communication are vital for overcoming resistance and misalignment with YHWH’s design.

Conclusion: Embracing Divine Design

Biblical patriarchy and submission honour YHWH’s structure for the family. Men lead responsibly, women thrive under loving leadership, and children grow in respect and wisdom. By embracing this model, families become beacons of stability and joy, showcasing the wisdom of YHWH’s commandments (1 John 5:3) and the ultimate submission of the Messiah for our salvation.