Insubordination is a significant issue within the church in Crete, as Paul describes to Titus. He notes that there are many insubordinate individuals, characterized by their rebellious nature and refusal to submit to any authority. These people are inherently defiant, rejecting the teachings they have received despite Paul and Titus's efforts to educate them in the gospel. Paul uses the term "insubordinate" to describe not only these individuals but also to highlight the importance of elders' children not being insubordinate, indicating a broader concern with rebelliousness within the community. This insubordination stems from a deep-seated desire for personal sovereignty, akin to those who believe themselves to be subject to no authority, reminiscent of the sovereign citizenship movement. Paul's language suggests that these individuals are out of line with recognized norms, reflecting the broader Cretan character of being self-serving and unwilling to submit to any authority. This rebelliousness leads to disruption and division within the church, necessitating strong leadership and corrective measures from Titus and the appointed elders.

Insubordination is a significant issue in today's society, where people are increasingly unwilling to be told no or to submit to authority. This attitude is pervasive and reflects a broader rejection of any form of restraint or command. In contrast, within the church, members are expected to submit to one another, as exemplified by soldiers in a regiment who must follow orders and relinquish individual control. Insubordination in the military leads to punishment, highlighting the seriousness of such behavior. The Christian, however, is called to voluntarily adopt a similar submissive attitude towards fellow believers, not out of compulsion, but as a manifestation of being filled with the Holy Spirit. This submission is crucial for maintaining harmony and unity within the church, contrasting sharply with the world's self-assertive and individualistic tendencies.

In I Timothy, Paul emphasizes that the children of a bishop or overseer must be 'believing,' and must not put themselves in a situation where they can be charged with being wild and disobedient. They must not be guilty of insubordination. In Titus 1:10-11, Paul describes those who contradict doctrine and ministerial authority as being numerous and characterized by insubordination among other undesirable qualities.