Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ImportanceObedience to God is a fundamental principle in Christian theology, reflecting a believer's submission to the divine will and commandments as revealed in Scripture. It is an act of faith and trust, demonstrating love and reverence for God. Obedience is not merely a duty but a response to God's grace and a pathway to spiritual growth and blessing. Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of obedience to God. In the Old Testament, obedience is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people. Deuteronomy 11:1 states, "You shall therefore love the LORD your God and always keep His charge, His statutes, His ordinances, and His commandments." This call to obedience is echoed throughout the Scriptures, underscoring its significance in the life of a believer. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies perfect obedience to the Father. 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." Christ's obedience is the model for all believers, illustrating the ultimate submission to God's will. Submission to Higher Powers Submission to higher powers is an extension of obedience to God, as earthly authorities are instituted by Him. Romans 13:1-2 instructs, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage highlights the divine origin of authority and the believer's responsibility to submit to it, as long as it does not contradict God's commands. The principle of submission is further supported in 1 Peter 2:13-14 : "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, or to governors as those sent by him to punish evildoers and praise well-doers." Obedience and Blessing Obedience to God is often associated with blessing and favor. In the Old Testament, blessings are promised to those who obey God's commandments. Deuteronomy 28:1-2 declares, "Now if you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God and are careful to follow all His commandments I am giving you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings will come upon you and overtake you, if you will obey the voice of the LORD your God." In the New Testament, Jesus affirms the blessedness of obedience in John 14:23 : "Jesus replied, 'If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word. My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.'" Obedience is thus portrayed as a pathway to intimate fellowship with God. Challenges and Encouragement While obedience to God and submission to higher powers can be challenging, believers are encouraged to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance. Acts 5:29 provides a clear directive when earthly authority conflicts with divine command: "But Peter and the other apostles replied, 'We must obey God rather than men.'" The call to obedience is not without its trials, but it is through these challenges that faith is refined and strengthened. James 1:22 exhorts believers, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." This active obedience is a testament to genuine faith and devotion to God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 13:1Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library God's Restraining Power. The Mistakes of Christ's Foes and Friends Sanctification. Covenant Duties. Of Civil Government. Covenanting a Duty. Book ix. In the Last Book we Treated of the Indistinguishable ... The Greater Prophets. The First Epistle of St. Peter The Epistle of St. James Resources Does God reward us for being obedient to His Word? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does Christ's righteousness need to be imputed to us? | GotQuestions.org Why is faith without works dead? | GotQuestions.org Obedience: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Obedience to God without Faith, is Impossible Obedience to God: A Characteristic of Saints Obedience to God: Angels Engaged In Obedience to God: Better than Sacrifice Obedience to God: Blessedness of Obedience to God: Christ, an Example of Obedience to God: Confess Your Failure In Obedience to God: Exhortations To Obedience to God: Includes: Keeping his Commandments Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying Christ Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying his Law Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying his Voice Obedience to God: Includes: Obeying the Gospel Obedience to God: Includes: Submission to Higher Powers Obedience to God: Justification Obtained by That of Christ Obedience to God: Obligations To Obedience to God: Pray to be Taught Obedience to God: Prepare the Heart For Obedience to God: Punishment of Refusing Obedience to God: Resolve Upon Obedience to God: Saints Elected To Obedience to God: Saints of Rome Obedience to God: should be Constant Obedience to God: should be from the Heart Obedience to God: should be Undeviating Obedience to God: should be Unreserved Obedience to God: should Be with Willingness Obedience to God: The Wicked Refuse Obedience to God: To be Universal in the Latter Days Obedience: General Scriptures Concerning Obedience: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego Obedience: Under the Preaching of Haggai Related Terms Commandments (181 Occurrences) |
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