Christ-like Character, Part 2 – by Jake and Abigail Graham

Submission often creates a tension between our desire for control and God's call to surrender. Jesus modelled perfect submission to the Father throughout His life. From his earthly relationships (Luke 2:48–52) to his ministry (John 5:19; 6:38; 8:28; 12:50), His life was rooted in obedience. In the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36–46), Jesus wrestled honestly with the Father's will, showing that submission is not always easy or effortless. Yet his love for the Father enabled him to surrender fully. In contrast, Adam and Eve chose autonomy over obedience (Genesis 3:6), revealing humanity's ongoing struggle with submission.

Our submission to God must come before resisting the devil or addressing other spiritual challenges. James 4:1–11 teaches that quarrels, selfish ambition, friendship with the world, and even slander can flow from hearts not fully surrendered to God. Submission is not a one-time decision but a continual posture. Frank Laubach's practice of regularly asking God, "What do You want said or done in this moment?" illustrates a lifestyle of daily dependence and surrender.

Submission to God is also expressed through submission to one another. Jesus demonstrated this by washing his disciples' feet before commanding them to love one another (John 13:1–17, 34–35). Mutual submission requires gratitude, humility, and a willingness to lay down the burden of always getting our own way (Ephesians 5:20–21). It means taking the concerns and perspectives of others seriously and discerning the difference between personal preferences and essential gospel truths. True submission reflects Christ's servant-hearted love.

You can watch the full sermon on our YouTube channel (the lesson starts at 46 mins).