In the preceding post “What is Christian obedience” we learnt the point of view of the Christian scholars and what the scripture teaches us about obedience. For a profound grasp of Christian obedience, the Bible is the only source. The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of obedience as a key element of the Christian faith. Obedience has its roots in the Old Testament, let us explore this sacred journey together.
The Old Testament provides a powerful foundation for understanding Christian obedience. Through the stories of our faith patriarchs, we see that obedience is more than just following rules; it’s an active demonstration of faith, trust, and a deep relationship with God. The examples of Noah, Abraham, and Joshua highlight that true obedience often requires radical trust, even when God’s commands seem illogical or impossible. Their stories show that faith isn’t passive; it’s an active, responsive surrender that aligns our will with God’s.
Key Passages and Their Meaning
The Old Testament consistently emphasizes obedience as a core component of the covenant between God and his people.These scriptures teach us that obeying God’s commands is crucial for a strong relationship with Him and for receiving His blessings. This recognition of God’s authority leads to a deeper understanding of His will and equips us to handle life’s complexities with grace. Let’s review some of these passages;
Exodus 19:5:
- This verse sets the stage for the Mosaic covenant, stating, “If you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples.” It shows that obedience is a condition for a special, cherished relationship with God.
Deuteronomy 11:1:
- Here, the command to “love the Lord your God and keep his charge, his statutes, his rules, and his commandments always” links obedience directly to love and a lifelong commitment to God’s authority.
Leviticus 18:4-5:
- These verses connect obedience to God’s statutes with living a fulfilling life. By following His laws, people find purpose and well-being.
Leviticus 22:31:
- This passage reinforces the idea that keeping God’s commandments is not an option but a sacred duty, essential for maintaining a holy relationship with Him.
The Patriarchs as Models of Obedience
The lives of the patriarchs are powerful illustrations of what obedience looks like in practice. Their experiences reveal that obedience is a radical trust in God’s will and promises, even when faced with immense challenges.
- Abraham’s Willingness to Sacrifice Isaac:
God commanded Abraham to offer his son Isaac as a burnt offering, a command that must have caused Abraham immense emotional turmoil. Yet, Abraham obeyed, demonstrating his unwavering faith and trust in God. An angel of the Lord intervened at the last moment, providing a ram for the sacrifice. Abraham’s actions show a complete devotion to God and a willingness to obey even when the command didn’t make sense.
- Noah Building the Ark:
God told Noah to build a large wooden ark for a global flood. This was a massive undertaking, and Noah had never built a ship before. He also had to collect two of every animal on Earth. Despite the challenges and doubt from others, Noah carefully followed God’s commands. He completed the ark as instructed, which saved him and his family from the flood. This story shows the importance of obedience even when the task seems impossible.
- Joshua Leading Israel into the Promised Land:
After Moses, God commissioned Joshua to lead the Israelites. This involved conquering powerful nations and taking possession of the land God had promised them. Joshua faithfully followed God’s instructions, facing daunting challenges like crossing the Jordan River and conquering the fortified city of Jericho. His obedience led to the fulfillment of God’s promise to His people.
Ultimately, these stories reveal that true faith isn’t a passive belief but an active, responsive surrender that aligns our will with God’s. Their faithfulness, tested by what seemed illogical and impossible, established a precedent for all who would follow.We have briefly explored some of the famous Old Testament stories. Building on the stories of the Old Testament patriarchs, it becomes clear that obedience is the central thread woven in God’s covenantal relationship with humanity.
Conclusion
we observe that their faithfulness, tested by what seemed illogical and impossible, established a precedent for all who would follow. Ultimately, their obedient lives reveal that true faith is not a passive belief but an active, responsive surrender that aligns our will with God’s.
It’s time to conclude for the night. In the next post, we will reconnect. Together we will now move to the New Testament.
Be blessed.
