In
the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any
of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the
behavior of their wives, ... For in this way in former times the holy women
also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own
husbands…. 1 Peter 3:1, 5
These are the verses that most often get people—especially
women—in a tizzy about “submission.” At the time these words were written Peter
was speaking mainly to Gentile Christians and as such slaves and women may have
been some of the strongest Christians scattered throughout the Roman Empire. As
such they needed to live like Christ and be good examples to others. By being
submissive—and letting their actions speak louder than their words—they could
win others to Christ. How often are our actions louder than our words when it
comes to representing Christ particularly to unsaved around us? Through efforts
of Global Gateway Network and Christ's Church in Roswell, New Mexico, the van pictured
here was given to the Wave Jerusalem Church for outreach to teens in Jerusalem via
music and interactive video. Servant service in action. Loud actions speak volumes in this case.
Interestingly
enough, Peter goes on to tell husbands (1 Peter 3:7) to live with their wives
in an understanding way…so that their prayers may not be hindered. He doesn’t
say for the husbands to make the wives be subservient or slaves…but to treat
them as a fellow heir of the grace of life. Considering that Christian women
are daughters of the King, which make them Princesses, husbands need to treat
their wives accordingly—as princesses. Do you treat all of God’s family as sons
and daughters of the King?
Training Tip –
With your family make paper crowns for everyone and decorate them so that
everyone is a Prince or Princess. Explain that as children of the King, we are
part of a royal family. We need to treat each other with dignity and respect.
We need to be “submissive” to each other because Jesus called us all to be
servants. In John 13:12-17, He says… After he had
finished washing their feet, he took his robe, put it back on, and went back to
his place at the table. Then he said, “Do you understand what I
have done to you? You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Master,’ and rightly so.
That is what I am. So if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must
now wash each other’s feet. I’ve laid down a pattern for you. What I’ve done,
you do. I’m only pointing out the obvious. A servant is not ranked above his
master; an employee doesn’t give orders to the employer. If you understand what
I’m telling you, act like it—and live a blessed life.” What it seems
like Jesus is saying here is be willing to serve each other—consider others
needs above your own—Treat others the
same way you want them to treat you. Luke 6:31. That is the key to gracious
and healthy living—even submissiveness… Treat
others the same way you want them to treat you. Is that the way you treat
your family?
Lord Jesus—help us to follow Your example and treat
others the same way we want them to treat us.
All
scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise
noted.
© 2013 by Mickey
M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
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