How can we apply Paul's example of obedience to God's command in 1 Timothy 1:1? Paul, an Apostle “by the Command of God” 1 Timothy 1:1: “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and Christ Jesus our hope.” • Paul did not volunteer for apostleship; God commanded it (Acts 9:15). • His authority and identity rested on that command—not on public opinion, credentials, or personal ambition (Galatians 1:15-16). • He anchored his obedience in the living hope found in Christ Jesus, which kept him steady through every trial (2 Corinthians 4:7-10). What Obedience Looked Like for Paul • Immediate surrender —When Jesus spoke, Paul changed direction the same day (Acts 9:18-20). • Lifelong commitment —Decades later he could still say, “I have fought the good fight” (2 Timothy 4:7). • Mission-first mindset —His comfort, reputation, and safety came second to preaching the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:16-17). • Dependence on grace —He served “by the grace of God,” never in self-reliance (1 Corinthians 15:10). Translating Paul’s Example into Daily Life • Recognize God’s rightful authority over every area—work, family, plans, finances (Psalm 24:1). • Accept the specific roles God assigns—whether visible or hidden (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Let Christ’s hope fuel perseverance—He who calls also equips (1 Thessalonians 5:24). • Make obedience non-negotiable—If Scripture speaks, settle the matter in your heart (John 14:15). Practices That Keep Us Living “Under Command” 1. Begin each day by affirming: “Lord, my life is Yours; direct me.” 2. Keep a running list of clear biblical commands and revisit them until they shape instinctive responses (James 1:22-25). 3. Respond promptly when the Spirit nudges—send that encouragement, forgive that offense, share that testimony (Galatians 5:25). 4. Measure success by faithfulness, not results—plant and water; God gives the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Scriptures That Reinforce the Call • Romans 1:5 —“Through Him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith.” • Luke 6:46 —“Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I say?” • Hebrews 10:36 —“You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.” • Philippians 2:13 —“For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.” Following Paul’s lead, we take God’s Word as command, lean on the hope of Christ, and step forward in simple, steadfast obedience. |
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