The Power of Obedience: Living a Life of Faith and Submission
Pastor Oladipupo Olowosulu
March 15, 2025
Obedience is the tangible expression of our faith, demonstrating our love and submission to God’s authority. As Christians, we are called to obey God’s commands, not out of duty alone, but also out of love and a desire to please Him. In this article, we will explore the biblical definition of obedience, its importance, and the dangers of partial obedience.
Definition and Importance of Obedience
Obedience is “dutiful or submissive compliance to the commands of one in authority” (Matthew 28:18-20). For Christians, this means complying with God’s instructions in the Scriptures, which is our duty and a reflection of our love for Him (John 14:15).
Elements of Biblical Obedience
– Dutiful: Obedience is our obligation to God, just like Jesus fulfilled His duty to the Father by dying on the cross for our sin (Philippians 2:8).
– Submissive: We yield our wills to God’s, recognizing His authority (Matthew 16:24).
– Commands: God has clearly delineated His instructions in the Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
– One in Authority: God Himself, whose authority is total and unequivocal (Matthew 28:18-20).
Dangers of Partial Obedience
Partial obedience is taking action concerning God’s instructions but not to the minute details. This is seen in the example of Saul, who disobeyed God’s command to utterly destroy the Amalekites, resulting in severe punishment (1 Samuel 15:1-23).
Total Obedience
Total obedience is following God without hesitation, complaining, or grumbling, considering His word as the final authority in our lives. This is the kind of obedience that pleases God and brings blessings (John 14:23, Matthew 5:13-16).
Conclusion
Obedience is an essential part of the Christian faith, demonstrating our love and submission to God’s authority. May we strive for total obedience, following God’s instructions in the Scriptures, and may our lives reflect the love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
