How can we "obey Him" as instructed in Hebrews 5:9? The Call to Obedience in Hebrews 5:9 “And having been perfected, He became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” Who Is the Source of Eternal Salvation? • Jesus, the sinless Son of God, “perfected” through His suffering (Hebrews 5:8). • His once-for-all sacrifice secures salvation for everyone who genuinely responds in obedient faith. What Does “Obey Him” Mean? • The Greek word ὑπακούω (hypakouō) literally means “to listen under,” conveying a readiness to hear, submit, and act. • Obedience is not a one-time act but a lifelong posture, proving the reality of saving faith (cf. James 2:17). Foundations for Obedience 1. A redeemed heart: We obey because we have been made alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:4-5). 2. Clear revelation: Scripture gives unchanging commands (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 3. Enabling grace: God works in us “to will and to act according to His good purpose” (Philippians 2:13). Linking Scripture with Obedience • John 14:15 — “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • 1 John 2:3-5 — Obedience assures us that we truly know Him. • James 1:22 — “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Romans 1:5 — The “obedience of faith” is the goal of the gospel. Practical Ways to Obey Him Today • Daily surrender: Start each morning acknowledging Christ’s lordship. • Steady intake of Scripture: Read, meditate, and memorize His commands. • Immediate application: Act on truth as soon as the Spirit convicts. • Faithful gathering: Submit to Christ’s body through local church fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Guarded speech: Let words be “seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). • Generous living: Steward possessions for God’s kingdom (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Bold witness: Share the gospel, fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). • Persistent prayer: Pray “without ceasing,” aligning desires with His will (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Power for Obedience: The Indwelling Spirit • Romans 8:11 promises the same Spirit who raised Jesus empowers believers to live righteously. • Galatians 5:16-25 shows that walking by the Spirit produces obedience’s fruit. The Fruit of Obedience • Deeper fellowship with God (John 14:23). • Growing assurance of salvation (1 John 3:24). • Visible testimony that draws others to Christ (Matthew 5:16). • Eternal reward: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). By relying on Christ’s finished work, submitting to His Word, and walking in the Spirit, believers answer Hebrews 5:9’s call—proving our salvation genuine through joyful, continual obedience to Him. |
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