Obedience in the biblical context is a fundamental aspect of the relationship between God and His people. It is the act of submitting to God's will, commands, and teachings as revealed in Scripture. The concept of obedience is woven throughout the Bible, beginning with the creation narrative and extending through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.

In the Old Testament, obedience is often linked to the covenant relationship between God and Israel. God’s commands were given to guide His people in righteousness and holiness. In Deuteronomy 11:1, the Israelites are instructed, "You shall therefore love the LORD your God and always keep His charge, His statutes, His ordinances, and His commandments." Obedience was not merely a legalistic adherence to rules but a demonstration of love and reverence for God.

The account of Abraham exemplifies obedience through faith. In Genesis 22, Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac at God's command illustrates his trust and submission to God's will. This act of obedience is later commended in Hebrews 11:8, which states, "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place he would later receive as an inheritance."

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of obedience. Philippians 2:8 describes Jesus as "being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." His obedience to the Father’s will is central to the salvation narrative, demonstrating that true obedience often involves sacrifice and humility.

Believers are called to emulate Christ’s obedience. In John 14:15, Jesus says, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Obedience is thus an expression of love for Christ and a reflection of a transformed life. The apostle Paul further emphasizes this in Romans 6:16, "Do you not know that when you offer yourselves as obedient slaves, you are slaves to the one you obey—whether you are slaves to sin leading to death, or to obedience leading to righteousness?"

Obedience is also linked to the work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live according to God’s will. In Galatians 5:16, Paul instructs, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." The Spirit enables believers to overcome sin and live in obedience to God’s commands.

Remembrance

Remembrance in the Bible is a significant theme that underscores the importance of recalling God’s past acts, His promises, and His commandments. It serves as a means of maintaining faithfulness and gratitude towards God.

In the Old Testament, God frequently commands His people to remember His mighty works and deliverance. The Passover is a prime example, instituted as a perpetual reminder of God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt. Exodus 12:14 states, "This day is to be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD; as a lasting ordinance for the generations to come."

The practice of setting up memorials, such as stones or altars, was common. In Joshua 4:7, after crossing the Jordan River, the Israelites set up twelve stones as a memorial, "These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever." Such acts of remembrance were intended to teach future generations about God’s faithfulness and power.

In the New Testament, Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper as an act of remembrance. In Luke 22:19, He instructs, "And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.'" This sacrament serves as a continual reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and the new covenant established through His blood.

Remembrance is also a call to remember God’s commandments and live according to His Word. Psalm 119:11 declares, "I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You." By remembering God’s Word, believers are equipped to resist sin and remain faithful.

The apostle Peter emphasizes the importance of remembrance in spiritual growth. In 2 Peter 1:12-13, he writes, "Therefore I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of my body." Remembrance serves to reinforce the truths of the faith and encourage perseverance.

In summary, both obedience and remembrance are integral to the life of faith, serving as expressions of love, trust, and commitment to God. They are interrelated, as remembrance of God’s faithfulness and commands fuels a life of obedience.