This is a 90 minute training session on Submission and Service with supporting PowerPoint and video content.
In this session, we will explore the spiritual disciplines of submission and service and see how they support spiritual growth on our disciple-making journey.
What is submission? What is service? Submission is self-denial and obedience to God. Biblical submission frees us from the burden of needing to get our way. The human definition of submission is to give control to a more powerful authority. Submission to others without submission to God is human submission. Service, as a spiritual discipline, is a selfless and sacrificial act from our hearts towards others as a response of love and obedience to God. The outward manifestation of submission is service to God and others. Matthew 20:28, Ephesian 5:21
Why are submission and service important? God asks us to submit to Him in all things – easy and hard. God honored Abraham’s submission (Genesis 22:1-19), and He will also honor our submission to Him. Jesus calls us to serve as He did. Our love for God and our obedience are demonstrated through our actions. Service puts us in a place where we can see the truth of Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” Acts 20:35 (NIV). Mark 8:34-35, Acts 20:35
How can we practice a lifestyle of submission and service? Reflect and look for ways to submit to a specific person, authority, and God. Ask God where, when, and how you can serve where He has placed you. Be ready to serve at every opportunity! Ephesians 5:21, Mark 12:17, James 4:7, Job 22:21