What does God expect from us? God’s Character and Our Response All discussion of what God expects from us must begin with an understanding of who God is. The Scriptures describe Him as the Creator of the universe (Genesis 1:1) and as holy, righteous, and just in all His ways (Psalm 145:17). Since He made humanity in His image (Genesis 1:27), our obligations align with His character. This foundational principle is echoed in Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” Acting Justly Acting justly relates to fairness, equity, and integrity in all relationships. From Old Testament legal codes (e.g., Exodus 23:1–9) to New Testament teachings on honesty (Ephesians 4:25), Scripture consistently affirms that God wants us to treat others with fairness and kindness. Archaeological excavations of ancient Israelite society, such as the discovery of legal records and administrative tablets in regions around Mesopotamia, confirm the emphasis placed on justice in the Ancient Near East. The Bible’s unique ethical standards reinforce the moral purity God expects of His people. Loving Mercy God’s nature is abundantly merciful (Psalm 103:8). To love mercy is to mirror His compassion. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37), Jesus teaches practical mercy toward those in need, regardless of their background or status. Historical accounts of early Christian communities—such as those recorded by Roman officials like Pliny the Younger—highlight the remarkable charity shown by believers, underscoring how mercy became a defining mark of Christian behavior. Walking Humbly with God Walking humbly encompasses reverence and obedience to God. Humility keeps our focus on God’s sovereignty rather than our own achievements (James 4:10). Ancient manuscripts, including the Dead Sea Scrolls discovered in Qumran—which reinforce the consistency of Old Testament texts—show that the call to humility and holiness before the Almighty is woven throughout biblical history. Loving God and Loving Neighbor When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” and “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30–31). This twofold command encapsulates our central responsibility: a wholehearted devotion to God that overflows in love toward people. 1. Love for God: Love signifies both affection and loyalty. Our devotion shows in obedience (John 14:15) and worship (Psalm 29:2). 2. Love for Neighbor: Scripture repeatedly calls believers to serve others (Galatians 5:13–14). Church history records ongoing acts of service and self-sacrifice—whether by caring for the sick during plagues (as recorded in Eusebius’s Church History) or establishing orphanages and hospitals—affirming that authentic faith engages acts of mercy and justice for the well-being of others. Faith in Christ and Repentance Central to God’s expectations is that we put our faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus declared, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Faith means trusting in Jesus’ identity, sacrificial death, and resurrection for our salvation. Repentance is the act of turning away from sin. The call to repentance threads throughout Scripture, from the prophets (Ezekiel 18:31–32) to the apostolic preaching in the early Church (Acts 2:38). This change of heart acknowledges God’s holiness and recognizes our need for His grace. Obedience and Holiness God expects His people to live holy lives (1 Peter 1:15–16). Holiness implies being set apart for God’s purposes and striving for moral purity. Obedience to God’s commands—rooted in love for Him—maintains the distinction between believers and the surrounding world (John 17:14–17). 1. Practical Holiness: This involves our daily conduct—abstaining from sin (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5). 2. Spiritual Holiness: The Holy Spirit empowers us to grow in Christlike character (Galatians 5:22–23). Historical texts from early African Christian communities, Syriac documents, and underground churches in Asia likewise detail testimonies of lives dramatically changed by obedience to God’s commands, backing the transforming power of biblical truth. Worship and Prayer Worship, both private and corporate, is a vital expectation. The Psalms highlight praise through prayers, singing, and thanksgiving (Psalm 100:4). In the New Testament, believers are encouraged to “pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Prayer fosters communion with God, guides decisions (James 1:5), and brings transformation. Archaeological findings, such as ancient church ruins with inscriptions honoring God, affirm that Christian worship has been a historical constant since the earliest days of the faith. This dedicated worship stems from the conviction that we owe our life, breath, and salvation to God’s sustaining grace (Acts 17:25). Serving and Using Our Gifts God endows believers with diverse talents and spiritual gifts to serve the Church and the world (Romans 12:4–6). As evidenced in historical movements like the modern missionary era spanning from the 18th century forward, individuals who recognized their calling labored to spread the good news of Jesus, establish hospitals and schools, and care for the vulnerable. 1. Spiritual Gifts: These range from teaching and leadership to hospitality and mercy (1 Corinthians 12:4–11). 2. Practical Service: Even everyday tasks can be offerings of worship if done unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23–24). Building Godly Relationships God also expects us to sustain loving relationships, whether in families, friendships, or congregational life. Marriage is set forth as a covenantal bond (Ephesians 5:31), and parents are instructed to nurture children in the Lord’s teaching (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). The concept of community is seen early in the New Testament when believers in Acts “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship” (Acts 2:42). Historical records show the rapid expansion of early Christianity partly due to the remarkable support and love believers showed one another. Roman historians—including Tertullian—commented on how Christians cared for not only their own sick but the sick of others. This sense of communal responsibility testifies to God’s design for a loving fellowship. Living as Witnesses to the Gospel Another key expectation is sharing the hope of Christ. Jesus commissioned His followers: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). God rightly anticipates that we will tell others about the salvation found in Christ alone. 1. Personal Testimony: Our changed lives and personal stories of redemption serve as living illustrations (1 Peter 3:15). 2. Apologetic Engagement: Presenting reasoned evidence for the truth of the resurrection and the reliability of Scripture is also part of our witness (Acts 17:2–3). Discoveries such as the empty tomb site in Jerusalem, along with historical testimonies of numerous eyewitnesses, supply the bedrock evidence that Christ is indeed risen. Perseverance in Trials Scripture is clear that trial and opposition will arise (John 16:33). Yet God expects believers to stand firm in faith. Through persecution or hardship, faithfulness to God demonstrates our hope is firmly rooted in Christ, who overcame death itself (1 Peter 4:12–16). Accounts like that of Polycarp (a 2nd-century bishop) and other early martyrs indicate that unwavering allegiance to Christ in the face of severe testing has long been part of the Christian heritage. Such perseverance confirms the depth of loyalty and trust in God’s promises. Glorifying God in All Things Ultimately, God’s expectation is that our lives bring glory to Him (1 Corinthians 10:31). This includes every dimension of life—thought, word, and deed. By reflecting His character, demonstrating love and obedience, and living with hope in the resurrected Christ, we fulfill our created purpose. Ancient Jewish and Christian literature, along with inscriptions in catacombs and early Christian art, consistently portray believers seeking to honor God above all else. This transcendent goal—to glorify Him—is the cornerstone of both the individual and collective Christian calling. Conclusion God’s expectations stem from His holiness, love, and redeeming plan for humanity. Acting justly, loving mercy, walking with humility, loving Him wholeheartedly, showing compassion to our neighbors, living a holy life, and bearing witness to the saving work of Christ—all define the essence of what He asks from us. These principles are confirmed by Scripture’s unified testimony, supported by historical and archaeological evidence, and applied through centuries of faithful Christian practice. Whether we observe the message in ancient manuscripts or experience the continual transformative power of the Holy Spirit, each thread weaves together into the same invitation: to align our hearts and lives with God’s purposes and, in so doing, glorify Him. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6) |
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