Bible Verses

The Best 50+ Bible Verses About Submitting To Authority

Updated:
February 28, 2025
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Author:
Joseph Cox

Understanding how to submit to authority can be challenging. This article offers 50 Bible verses to guide you.

These verses provide wisdom and insight on respecting and following authority. They can help you navigate life's complexities.

50 Bible Verses About Submitting To Authority

10 Bible Verses on Submitting To Authority in Government

Romans 13:1
  • "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." — Romans 13:1
  • "Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good." — 1 Peter 2:13-14
  • "Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work." — Titus 3:1
  • "They said to Him, 'Caesar’s.' And He said to them, 'Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.'" — Matthew 22:21
  • "The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes." — Proverbs 21:1
  • "And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding." — Daniel 2:21
  • "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." — 1 Timothy 2:1-2
  • "Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake." — Romans 13:5
  • "But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: 'We ought to obey God rather than men.'" — Acts 5:29
  • "And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace." — Jeremiah 29:7

10 Bible Verses on Submitting To Authority in the Workplace

Ephesians 6:5
  • "Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ." — Ephesians 6:5
  • "Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God." — Colossians 3:22
  • "Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh." — 1 Peter 2:18
  • "Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back." — Titus 2:9
  • "Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed." — 1 Timothy 6:1
  • "Whoever keeps the fig tree will eat its fruit; so he who waits on his master will be honored." — Proverbs 27:18
  • "If the spirit of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your post; for conciliation pacifies great offenses." — Ecclesiastes 10:4
  • "That you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing." — 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
  • "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." — 1 Corinthians 10:31
  • "For each one shall bear his own load." — Galatians 6:5

10 Bible Verses on Submitting To Authority in the Family

Ephesians 5:22
  • "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord." — Ephesians 5:22
  • "Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord." — Colossians 3:20
  • "Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you." — Hebrews 13:17
  • "Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives." — 1 Peter 3:1
  • "My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother." — Proverbs 1:8
  • "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you." — Exodus 20:12
  • "Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may be well with you in the land which the Lord your God is giving you." — Deuteronomy 5:16
  • "Listen to your father who begot you, and do not despise your mother when she is old." — Proverbs 23:22
  • "But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." — 1 Timothy 5:8
  • "For I have known him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness and justice, that the Lord may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him." — Genesis 18:19

10 Bible Verses on Submitting To Authority in the Church

Hebrews 13:7
  • "Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct." — Hebrews 13:7
  • "And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves." — 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
  • "This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work." — 1 Timothy 3:1
  • "Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood." — Acts 20:28
  • "And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." — Ephesians 4:11-12
  • "And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues." — 1 Corinthians 12:28
  • "Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for 'God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" — 1 Peter 5:5
  • "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another." — Romans 12:10
  • "And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." — 2 Timothy 2:2
  • "Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel." — Philippians 1:27

10 Bible Verses on Submitting To Authority in Society

Romans 12:18
  • "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men." — Romans 12:18
  • "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." — Matthew 5:9
  • "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear." — 1 Peter 3:15
  • "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." — Galatians 5:13
  • "Do all things without complaining and disputing." — Philippians 2:14
  • "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy." — James 3:17
  • "If someone says, 'I love God,' and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?" — 1 John 4:20
  • "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets." — Matthew 7:12
  • "And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise." — Luke 6:31
  • "Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another." — Romans 14:19

What Does the Bible Say About Submitting To Authority

Submitting to authority is a recurring theme in the Bible, offering guidance on how to live harmoniously in various aspects of life. These teachings encourage us to respect and follow those in positions of leadership, whether in government, the workplace, family, church, or society. By understanding and applying these principles, we can foster peace and cooperation in our daily lives.

In government, the Bible emphasizes the importance of respecting leaders and laws. Verses like Romans 13:1 remind us that all authority comes from God, and by submitting to it, we honor Him. This helps create a stable and orderly society where everyone can thrive.

At work, the Bible encourages us to be diligent and respectful employees. Ephesians 6:5 and Colossians 3:22 highlight the value of working sincerely and wholeheartedly, as if serving Christ. This attitude not only pleases God but also promotes a positive and productive work environment.

Within the family, submission is about mutual respect and love. Ephesians 5:22 and Colossians 3:20 call for wives to respect their husbands and children to obey their parents. These teachings aim to build strong, loving family bonds that reflect God's love for us.

In the church, the Bible urges us to respect and support our spiritual leaders. Hebrews 13:7 and 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 encourage us to recognize their efforts and follow their guidance. This fosters unity and growth within the church community.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Submitting To Authority

Applying Bible teachings about submitting to authority can bring peace and order to our lives. These principles help us build respectful relationships and create a harmonious environment.

Here are some practical steps to live out these biblical principles:

  • Start your day with a prayer asking for guidance in respecting authority figures in your life.
  • Show respect to your leaders at work by listening actively and following instructions diligently.
  • In your family, practice patience and understanding, especially when disagreements arise.
  • Participate in community activities that promote peace and cooperation.
  • Encourage others to follow these principles by setting a good example in your daily interactions.

Remember, God is always with you, guiding you through every step. Your faith can transform your life and the lives of those around you.

Explore more prayers and Bible verses on PrayersFor or use our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.

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