What can we learn about obedience from the disciples' actions in Matthew 21:3? Setting the scene “‘If anyone asks anything of you, you shall say that the Lord has need of them, and immediately he will send them.’” (Matthew 21:3) Jesus had just instructed two disciples to untie a donkey and her colt in the nearby village and bring them to Him. Their task was clear, yet unusual—taking animals that did not belong to them and trusting that a simple phrase, “The Lord has need of them,” would satisfy any objections. The disciples’ model of obedience • Immediate compliance – They “went and did as Jesus had directed them” (Matthew 21:6). No delay, no debate, no modification of His instructions. • Trust beyond sight – They had no guarantee of how the owners would respond, but Jesus’ word was enough. • Courageous action – Approaching someone else’s property could have resulted in confrontation, yet they acted boldly. • Submission to authority – By treating Jesus’ directive as final, they displayed wholehearted submission to His lordship. Key lessons for believers today • Obedience begins with listening. Clear instructions from Scripture or Spirit-led conviction require attentive hearts (James 1:22). • Prompt action pleases God. Delayed obedience is disobedience in disguise (Psalm 119:60). • God supplies favor when we obey. Just as the animal owners released their donkeys, God opens doors when His people follow His lead (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Faith fuels obedience. Acting on Christ’s word—even when outcomes seem uncertain—honors Him and deepens trust (Hebrews 11:8). • Obedience fulfills prophecy and purpose. The disciples’ actions enabled Zechariah 9:9 to unfold; our obedience advances God’s larger plan. Supporting Scriptures • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Luke 5:5 – Peter obeys Jesus’ call to cast nets again, illustrating result-oriented obedience. • 1 Samuel 15:22 – “To obey is better than sacrifice,” underscoring God’s priority. • Philippians 2:8 – Christ’s own obedience unto death provides the ultimate pattern. • James 2:22 – Faith is perfected by works of obedience. Putting it into practice 1. Seek daily directives from God’s Word; write down specific actions to take. 2. Respond promptly, resisting the urge to over-analyze. 3. Trust God with the unknowns; rehearse His past faithfulness to silence fear. 4. Celebrate each step of obedience, remembering that small acts advance His kingdom purposes. |
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