Introduction
In today’s Christian landscape, many believers tend to disregard what might be considered the “little doctrines” of the Bible—instructions that earlier generations revered and obeyed with deep reverence. Practices such as a woman covering her head while praying or prophesying, submitting to her husband, or the idea that it is a shame for a man to have long hair and emulating Christ in everything—even to the extent of loving their wives as Christ loved the church—are often dismissed as outdated or irrelevant. Yet, are these teachings not part of sound doctrine? Does God value them, and why do many believers today set them aside?
These questions are critical because they reveal whether Christians truly walk in submission, love, and obedience to God. The Word of God calls us to be doers, not hearers only, lest we deceive ourselves (James 1:22). This article will explore the significance of these teachings, the reasons they are often disregarded, and their place in a life of faith that honors God.
Are These Instructions Part of Sound Doctrine?
The teachings, such as women covering their heads (1 Corinthians 11:5-6), submitting to their husbands (Ephesians 5:22-24), and the shame of long hair on men (1 Corinthians 11:14), are rooted in Scripture. These instructions were not arbitrary cultural norms but part of the apostolic teachings to the early church. They hold weight because they reflect God’s design and order.
These doctrines often fall under the category of “church order” or “practical outworkings of faith.” They reveal deeper principles: the relationship between Christ and the Church, the roles of men and women, and the acknowledgment of God’s authority in creation.
Additionally, the phrase “because of angels” in 1 Corinthians 11:10 connects the practice of head coverings to the spiritual realm, emphasizing its profound significance beyond human understanding.
“Because of Angels”
Paul’s reference to angels in 1 Corinthians 11:10 underscores the importance of head coverings as a sign of authority. This phrase has profound implications:
- Angels as Witnesses: Angels are present during worship and observe the order and reverence displayed by believers. They recognize and respect God’s divine hierarchy, and head coverings symbolize a believer’s acknowledgment of this order.
- The Role of Angels in Spiritual Realms: Angels operate within God’s divine order, and any deviation from this order by humans can cause disruption. By maintaining proper signs of authority, believers align themselves with God’s established structure, which angels uphold.
- Protection and Submission: Some interpretations suggest that adhering to God’s order, symbolized by head coverings, offers spiritual protection. It demonstrates submission to God’s authority and prevents believers from stepping into realms of spiritual vulnerability.
- A Cosmic Testimony: What believers do in worship impacts not only the earthly but also the heavenly realm. Head coverings serve as a visible testimony to the interconnectedness of God’s creation and the acknowledgment of His authority.
- Repercussions of Neglecting Angelic Roles: Ignoring the responsibilities of angels in human affairs can have spiritual consequences. Angels are tasked with upholding divine order and protecting believers. Disregarding their role could lead to spiritual isolation, loss of protection, and dishonor in worship. It reflects a lack of reverence for God’s design, potentially disrupting the harmony between earthly and heavenly realms.
This connection to angels reveals that these practices are far from arbitrary; they reflect the profound spiritual realities in which believers participate.
Submission and Christ-like Love as Acts of Faith
The structure of headship and submission outlined in 1 Corinthians 11:3—”the head of every man is Christ, the head of a woman is man, and the head of Christ is God”—is not about domination but divine order. Christ’s submission to the Father, though equal with Him, is the ultimate model for us (Philippians 2:5-8). Submission and headship within marriage reflect this relationship.
For the man: Loving his wife as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25) requires self-sacrifice. Christ gave everything for His bride, even His life. Similarly, a husband must lead with humility, service, and a Spirit-transformed heart.
For the woman: Submitting to her husband “as unto the Lord” (Ephesians 5:22) is an act of trust and love, both for her husband and for Christ. This submission is not servility but a reflection of God’s wisdom and order.
Both roles demand dying to self, making submission and sacrificial love acts of worship and proof of devotion to Christ. “You cannot say that you love Christ when you can’t love the humans that are in front of you.” Without love and submission in earthly relationships, our profession of faith is hollow.
Trials as Tests of Faith
Trials and testing of our faith are imperative. These tests, often likened to passing through fire, are designed to refine and strengthen us. As Peter writes, “The trial of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:7). He further encourages believers not to be surprised by fiery trials, as they are a means of partaking in Christ’s sufferings (1 Peter 4:12-14).
Consider Abraham, the father of faith. God tested him through various trials, proving the authenticity of his faith before counting him righteous. James highlights that Abraham’s faith was made perfect through his works during these trials (James 2:22). Similarly, believers are called to walk in the steps of Abraham’s faith (Romans 4:12), demonstrating obedience and trust in God through every test.
The Adornment of Inner Beauty
The Bible emphasizes inner beauty over outward adornment. Peter writes, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight” (1 Peter 3:3-4).
Modern Christians often prioritize external appearance, influenced by worldly trends, over the biblical call to modesty and reverence. Such pursuits lead to spiritual decay, shifting focus from godly virtues to fleeting, superficial values. In contrast, godly women of old, like Sarah, are commended for their trust in God and their respect for their husbands (1 Peter 3:5-6). The adornment that pleases God is the beauty of holiness, not the fleeting allure of worldly fashion.
The Danger of Walking in the Flesh
Paul warns Timothy of the perilous times in the last days: “For men shall be lovers of their own selves… lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof” (2 Timothy 3:2-5). This describes the state of many professing Christians who prioritize self-gratification over self-denial.
Walking in the flesh manifests in rejecting biblical principles, such as submission, headship, and modesty. Paul warns: “Now the works of the flesh are manifest… they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:19-21). Such behavior leads to spiritual ruin and is evidence of a heart that does not truly abide in Christ.
The Fear of God and Perseverance in Faith
Scripture repeatedly calls believers to live with reverence and fear of God: “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). Without the fear of God, people walk in rebellion, deceiving themselves into thinking they can live as they please under God’s grace (Romans 6:1-2).
The example of Israel in the wilderness serves as a stern warning. Though they experienced God’s deliverance, most perished because of unbelief and disobedience. Paul warns: “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). This reminds us that salvation is not static; it requires perseverance and faithfulness.
A Call to Faithful Obedience
In these last days, as lawlessness abounds and love grows cold (Matthew 24:12), Christians are called to stand apart. Faithful obedience to God’s Word—even in the “little things”—is a testimony to the world and evidence of true faith.
Paul’s charge to Timothy applies to us: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season… For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine” (2 Timothy 4:2-3). “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1 Timothy 4:16). Let us hold fast to the truth, walking in submission, love, and reverence for God, so that we may be found faithful when Christ returns.
Conclusion
The “little doctrines” of submission, headship, modesty, and reverence reflect profound spiritual truths. They are not burdens but blessings, drawing us closer to God and aligning us with His design. As believers, we must walk in trembling and fear, examining ourselves to ensure our faith is genuine (2 Corinthians 13:5).
Let us encourage one another to embrace a life of obedience, love, and submission—not to earn salvation but as a joyful response to the One who saved us. May we endure to the end and offer a countercultural testimony of holiness and faithfulness, bringing glory to God in all things. “May we be found faithful when Christ returns, enduring to the end for His glory.”