Introduction

Obedience to tradition and law is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the importance of adhering to God's commandments and the established practices of the faith community. This entry explores the biblical basis for obedience, the role of tradition and law in the life of believers, and the balance between adherence to the law and the spirit of the law.

Biblical Basis for Obedience

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands. In the Old Testament, the Israelites are repeatedly instructed to follow the laws given by God through Moses. Deuteronomy 6:1-2 states, "These are the commandments and statutes and ordinances that the LORD your God has instructed me to teach you to follow in the land that you are about to enter and possess, so that you and your children and grandchildren may fear the LORD your God all the days of your lives by keeping all His statutes and commandments that I give you, and so that your days may be prolonged."

In the New Testament, Jesus affirms the importance of the law, stating in Matthew 5:17 , "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." This underscores the continuity of God's moral law and the expectation of obedience among His followers.

Role of Tradition

Tradition plays a crucial role in maintaining the continuity of faith and practice within the community of believers. The Apostle Paul, in 2 Thessalonians 2:15 , exhorts the church, "Therefore, brothers, stand firm and cling to the traditions we taught you, whether by speech or by letter." This highlights the importance of adhering to the teachings and practices passed down through the apostles.

However, the Bible also warns against elevating human traditions above God's commandments. Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for this in Mark 7:8-9 , "You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men. And He went on to say, 'You neatly set aside the commandment of God to maintain your own tradition.'"

The Law and the Spirit

While obedience to the law is essential, the Bible also emphasizes the spirit behind the law. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 7:6 , writes, "But now, having died to what bound us, we have been released from the law, so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code." This indicates that true obedience involves a heart aligned with God's will, not merely external compliance.

Jesus encapsulates this principle in Matthew 22:37-40 , where He summarizes the law: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Conclusion

Obedience to tradition and law is a multifaceted concept in the Bible, requiring a balance between adherence to God's commandments and the traditions of the faith community, while also embracing the spirit of love and devotion that underpins the law.