Under Authority—Practicing Submission in a Rebellious Society

by Christopher Hoyt

"This is a most timely work on a much-needed topic, as the internationally known endorsers affirm. In just 80 pages Under Authority sets us right about some things that really matter—going against the cultural stream by highlighting the beauty of the virtue of submission. Without in any way advocating for authority as the arbitrary imposition of will, Christopher Hoyt writes that meaningful freedom comes only within the context the faithful and rightfully placed practice of submission. As a prolific composer and trained musician, Hoyt shows us that true creativity and growth come from standing within a tradition and submitting to its conventions and symbols so that, for an example, great music can be written and performed. Similarly, he calls us to stand within the flow of Apostolic Tradition and life, so we can best appreciate and express our freedom in Christ. The cover illustration says it all, with its depiction of a conductor’s baton. Even the greatest musicians playing the greatest instruments will come to nothing without the ordering authority of the conductor, and the musicians’ willingness to submit to it. Author Christopher Hoyt fills a tremendous void with this invaluable study.

"Endorser’s of this watershed work include Dr. Hans Boersma of Nashotah House; Eminent historian Dr. Wilfred McClay; Dr. Michael Nazir-Ali, Chaplain to Queen Elisabeth and Prelate of Honor to Pope Francis; Dr. Ray Sutton, Anglican Scholar and Presiding Bishop of the Reformed Episcopal Church; and Dr. James Wilburn, founding Dean and Dean Emeritus of both the Graduate Business School and the Graduate Public Policy School at Pepperdine University."

81 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pleasantly surprised that this book was so good, judging by the book cover one would think this was published in the 70’s or 80’s and was some pastor telling women how they should be doormats for their husbands.
But this book was NOT THAT AT ALL!
Starting with a brief chapter on how authority (or leadership) and submission (or following) is so very much changed in how it’s been portrayed in our literature and entertainment (with reference I actually know! Or at least some :D), and continuing discourse on submission/following in various other areas of life (government, workplace, home, etc) this was convicting to say the least. Each chapter could have been expounded into its own book, but the concise form was not a detractor (nor was it written in a stuffy, holier than thou manner, which was a pleasant surprise as well).
Would recommend, and also a book I’d actually consider re-reading (and even would perhaps buy my own copy, instead of just borrowing it).

[Mark Einselen · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Under Authority" is a short book where each chapter could've been its own standalone book. It divides the realms of authority into each chapter: the heroes in our stories, the Church, the Family, Civil Rulers, and Craftsmanship. Each deserves greater exploration and discussion, however this is a solid introduction for those who sense that our modern western world isn't "normal".

One of the minor themes that runs through this book about being "under" authority is actually about "taking" authority when appropriate; that failing to do so is a dereliction of duty. It's not anti-authority. It's for the proper and responsible stewardship of it.

Following the logic established in the book, the chapter on Civil Rulers had a few gaps in the justification of the US war for Independence.

The concluding chapter on Craftsmanship was probably my favorite, given my day-to-day profession. If the rest of the book doesn't appeal to you, perhaps just read that one.

In the end, it's five stars due to the author taking on a difficult subject, writing succinctly about it, and for providing a wholistic worldview through which to operate one's life.