Living in Subjection to God and His People By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
Romans 12:5 (KJV): So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
Introduction
As believers, we are called to live in subjection to God and to one another within the body of Christ. This divine calling is not about independence or self-exaltation but about recognizing our place within the collective purpose of God’s kingdom. The message delivered emphasizes the importance of humility, obedience, and reliance on God, warning against the dangers of pride and self-reliance. In a world filled with boasting and self-glorification, God desires His people to walk humbly, giving glory to Him and functioning as integral parts of His body. This lesson explores the biblical principles of subjection, the perils of pride, the necessity of daily reliance on God’s mercies, and the pursuit of His kingdom. Through scriptural guidance, we will uncover how to live in alignment with God’s will, fostering unity, repentance, and obedience. The following sections provide a detailed examination of these truths, supported by scriptures to encourage and equip believers to walk in humility and faithfulness.
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The Call to Subjection and Unity
God’s design for His people is to function as one body, where each member has a unique role but is not superior to others. Subjection to God and to fellow believers who walk uprightly is essential for maintaining unity and fulfilling God’s purposes. Independence and self-exaltation disrupt this unity, leading to pride, which is a deception that separates us from God’s will. By submitting to God and respecting the roles of others in the body of Christ, we honor His design and contribute to the strength of the church. This subjection is not about diminishing our value but about recognizing that we are part of a greater whole, dependent on God and interconnected with one another.
1 Corinthians 12:12 (KJV): For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
This scripture underscores the unity of the body of Christ, where each member is essential yet interdependent. By living in subjection, we align ourselves with God’s plan, ensuring that our actions glorify Him rather than ourselves.
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The Dangers of Pride and Self-Glory
Pride is a deadly force that leads to destruction, as it causes individuals to esteem themselves above others and even above God. The message warns that many have fallen into hell because they succumbed to the deception of pride, taking glory for themselves instead of giving it to God. Jesus, our ultimate example, never sought His own glory but always directed it to the Father. As believers, we must guard against the temptation to boast in our abilities or accomplishments, for such pride blinds us to our need for God and leads us down a path of spiritual ruin. Humility is the antidote to pride, and it keeps us in right standing with God.
Proverbs 16:18 (KJV): Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
This scripture serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride. By choosing humility and giving glory to God, we protect ourselves from the pitfalls of self-exaltation and remain in subjection to His will.
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Reliance on God’s Mercies
In times of uncertainty and worldly chaos, God’s mercies are a daily gift to His people. The message highlights the folly of those who claim control over their lives or circumstances, such as those who boasted of stopping plagues yet failed to do so. True security comes from relying on God, who alone gives and sustains life. As believers, we are called to live one day at a time, trusting in God’s provision and mercies. This reliance frees us from fear and worry about the future, allowing us to rest in the assurance that God cares for us deeply. By focusing on His faithfulness, we find peace and strength to navigate life’s challenges.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV): It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
This scripture reminds us of the daily renewal of God’s mercies. By trusting in His care and provision, we can live free from the anxieties that plague those who rely on their own strength.
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Pursuing God’s Kingdom Aggressively
God calls His people to be aggressive in pursuing His kingdom, not their own achievements. The world entices believers with false promises of glory and success, but these lead to defilement and separation from God. Instead, we are to seek God’s kingdom with passion and dedication, obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit. This pursuit requires vigilance against the devil’s devices, which seek to ensnare us through worldly temptations. When we err or are misled, repentance is the key to restoration. Pride may tempt us to resist repentance, but humility allows us to return to God’s path and continue in His purpose.
Matthew 6:33 (KJV): But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
This scripture emphasizes the priority of seeking God’s kingdom above all else. By focusing on His purposes, we align our lives with His will and experience His provision and guidance.
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The Repulsiveness of Pride and the Beauty of Repentance
Pride is described as a foul, rotten force that is repulsive to God’s Spirit. Just as we recoil from a foul odor, God finds pride detestable, as it opposes His nature and design for His people. In contrast, repentance is a beautiful act of humility that cleanses us from sin and restores our relationship with God. The obedience of Jesus opened the way for a “repentance revolution,” where all who turn from sin can be washed by His blood and restored to fellowship with God. As believers, we must be quick to repent when we detect pride or any other sin, allowing God to purify us and keep us in His favor.
1 John 1:9 (KJV): If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
This scripture assures us of God’s faithfulness to forgive and cleanse those who repent. By rejecting pride and embracing repentance, we remain in subjection to God and reflect His righteousness.
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Summary
The call to live in subjection to God and His people is a call to humility, unity, and obedience. Pride and self-glory lead to destruction, but reliance on God’s mercies and aggressive pursuit of His kingdom keep us aligned with His will. The body of Christ functions as one, with each member playing a vital role without superiority. Repentance is essential for maintaining a right relationship with God, as it cleanses us from the repulsiveness of pride and restores us to His favor. By trusting in God’s daily mercies and seeking His kingdom above all else, we can navigate the challenges of this world with confidence and peace.
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Conclusion
Living in subjection to God and His people requires a heart of humility and a commitment to His purposes. The dangers of pride are real, leading to separation from God and ultimate destruction. However, by relying on God’s mercies, pursuing His kingdom, and embracing repentance, we can walk in the victory and peace that come from obedience. God desires His people to be united, humble, and aggressive for His kingdom, rejecting the world’s false promises and standing firm in His truth. As we submit to Him and one another, we fulfill His expectations and experience the fullness of His blessings.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart daily for any traces of pride or self-reliance, and be quick to repent. Seek God’s kingdom above all else, obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Foster unity with other believers, recognizing their value in the body of Christ. Spend time in prayer and God’s Word to strengthen your reliance on His mercies. Reject the world’s temptations and live each day with gratitude for God’s provision and guidance.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Take heart, for God is faithful to lead and sustain you. As you walk in humility and subjection, you will find peace and purpose in His presence. Do not fear the uncertainties of this world, for God’s mercies are new every morning. Rejoice in the privilege of serving Him, and let His Spirit guide you into all truth. You are part of His body, cherished and equipped to fulfill His calling.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You, recognizing my need for Your grace and salvation. I confess that I am a sinner and cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus, and be my Savior and Lord. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and guide me in Your truth. Thank You for Your love and the promise of eternal life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
