*Hupotasso* (G5293) is a Greek term central to understanding submission in the New Testament. This word, meaning "to arrange in order under," carries a military connotation, implying a systematic arrangement under authority, much like soldiers under their superiors, from sergeants up to the highest ranks. It appears in various English translations as "submit," "subordinate," "obey," "subject to," "surrender," "be weak," "afflicted," "humbled," "put under," and even "stay in your place," depending on the context. In the New Testament, *hupotasso* is used in diverse situations. For instance, in Luke, it describes Jesus at twelve years old being subject to His parents, translated as "obedient" in some versions. Elsewhere, Paul uses it to convey the idea of submission, as seen in translations like "submit" or "subordinate" in various contexts, including instructions for women to be in submission. It's also rendered as "subdue" or "under control" in other passages, showing its broad application. Another example circles back to Luke, where it's again translated as "obedient," "submissive," or "subject to," highlighting respect for authority. The distinction between submission and obedience tied to *hupotasso* is subtle but significant. While obedience means simply following a command or complying, submission involves yielding or deferring out of respect, authority, affection, persuasion, or compulsion. Submission, as conveyed by *hupotasso*, engages a person's will more deeply, making it crucial for character development and aligning with God's desires. It's not just about compliance but about a deliberate choice to arrange oneself under authority, reflecting a thoughtful and purposeful act.

The concept of submission to God is central to understanding our relationship with Him, and the Greek term *hupotasso* (G5293), a verb meaning to arrange under or rank below, captures this idea vividly. Used in the New Testament, often alongside its noun form *hupotage*, it is a military term that implies a hierarchy of ranks, ensuring order by placing each individual under another's authority. In this context, God holds the highest rank as the sovereign King of kings and Lord of lords, and our duty, as those who rank below Him, is to submit voluntarily. This submission involves arranging ourselves under His authority in a way that pleases Him and yields the best results, ultimately leading to eternal life and entrance into His Kingdom. Unlike human sovereigns who may force subjection, God rarely compels submission, allowing us the choice to align ourselves under His will, as choosing to submit is choosing life.

The term *hupotasso* (G5293) is a military word meaning to arrange in order under. It describes an act of submission, not through external control by God, but as a voluntary choice. Unlike a drill instructor who uses force to make recruits subject to authority, individuals can arrange themselves under authority by their own decision. The carnal mind, being physically oriented and unconverted, cannot subject itself to God, lacking the ability to make such a choice. However, when God converts a person and imparts a new spirit, they gain the ability to submit, though they must still make the choice without external coercion. In specific contexts, *hupotasso* illustrates personal responsibility in submission. For instance, a wife's submission to her husband is an act of arranging herself under his authority, not due to inherent superiority, but because God requires it for order. This submission is given, not forced, as an act of faith in God's command. Similarly, individuals are to submit to human ordinances, controlling their human nature to stay within God's parameters, unless such laws cause them to sin against God. Even then, they remain subject to the penalties of man's laws, whether fines, imprisonment, or other consequences. Within the church, submission to authority, such as to an elder or deacon, follows the same principle of self-governance. If an authority's request conflicts with God's law, one arranges themselves under God's authority instead, though still subject to potential consequences from the human authority. The concept of *hupotasso* emphasizes that submission is an internal act of aligning oneself under God's will or designated authority, reflecting a conscious choice rather than enforced control.