In what ways can we demonstrate obedience to God's command in daily life? Key Verse “And this is His commandment: to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as He commanded us.” (1 John 3:23) Understanding the Command • One command with two inseparable parts: – Believe in Jesus Christ. – Love one another. • These are not suggestions; they are marching orders rooted in the character of God (John 13:34). Obeying through Faith in Christ • Daily confess Christ as Lord (Romans 10:9). • Lean on His finished work, not personal merit (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Let faith inform choices—consult Scripture before acting (Psalm 119:105). • Speak of Christ naturally with family, friends, and coworkers (Acts 4:20). Obeying through Active Love • Love is defined by action, not feeling (1 John 3:18). • Forgive quickly (Matthew 6:14-15). • Meet tangible needs: share food, time, resources (James 2:15-17). • Encourage and build up rather than criticize (Ephesians 4:29). • Pray for enemies and bless them (Luke 6:27-28). At Home • Start and end the day with Scripture and prayer together. • Honor marriage vows with faithfulness and kindness (Hebrews 13:4). • Model humility by admitting mistakes and seeking forgiveness. • Serve family members before self—dishes, chores, listening ear. At Work or School • Work “as unto the Lord” with integrity (Colossians 3:23). • Refuse gossip; instead, speak truth in love. • Be punctual and reliable—your yes is yes (Matthew 5:37). • Show Christ’s patience with difficult people. In the Community • Support the local church with presence, gifts, and service (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Volunteer in outreach to the needy: shelters, food banks, mentoring. • Practice hospitality—open your home to neighbors and strangers (Hebrews 13:2). • Engage civic duties ethically and prayerfully (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Guardrails for Sustaining Obedience • Stay rooted in the Word daily (Joshua 1:8). • Keep short accounts with God—confess sin immediately (1 John 1:9). • Cultivate fellowship with believers who spur you on (Proverbs 27:17). • Rely on the Holy Spirit’s power, not sheer willpower (Galatians 5:16). The Fruit of Obedience • Assurance of abiding in Him (1 John 3:24). • A clear conscience and deeper joy (John 15:10-11). • A compelling witness that draws others to Christ (Matthew 5:16). |
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