W.D.Peter

Throughout His life and ministry, Jesus Christ consistently submitted His will to the will of God and honored the authorities God placed in His life. At age twelve, after staying behind in Jerusalem to teach in the temple, Jesus told His parents, “I must be about my Father’s business.” Yet, the Bible notes that He returned to Nazareth and remained subject to Joseph and Mary, demonstrating that His divine mission did not exempt Him from earthly obedience.

At age thirty, Jesus submitted to the spiritual authority of John the Baptist. Despite John’s initial reluctance to baptize the sinless Son of God, Jesus insisted, stating, “Let us fulfill all righteousness.” By doing so, Jesus set a precedent for us: there is great spiritual protection, growth, and health in submitting to God and the spiritual leaders He appoints. Their shared history—beginning when John leaped in Elizabeth’s womb at Mary’s greeting—culminated in this public act of obedience, which launched Jesus’ ministry and serves as a model for the Church. Jesus also respected governing authorities. When asked about paying taxes, He explained that while the children of God are technically free, He chose to pay the tribute to avoid causing offense. He instructed Peter to catch a fish, where he miraculously found the necessary coin, demonstrating that obedience toauthority often leads to witnessing God’s provision. The climax of Jesus’ submission occurred in Gethsemane. Facing the agony of the cross, He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours, be done.” By yielding to the Father’s plan—knowing it meant suffering, death, shame— as “the Lamb led to the slaughter”. Jesus provided the ultimate example of total surrender to God’s supreme authority. Scripture is filled with similar examples of those who found favor and purpose through submission: Joshua to Moses, Timothy to Paul, Elisha to Elijah, and David to Samuel. Ruth’s submission to Naomi led her into God’s inheritance, placing her in the lineage of the Messiah. Similarly, Joseph’s submission to God and his superiors led to his exaltation, ultimately ensuring the safety and prosperity of his family. Like these figures, we are called to yield to the Spirit of God and honor the shepherds and leaders He places in our lives, trusting that this path leads to spiritual maturity and divine protection.