Bible Study: The School of Obedient: Week # 5

"OBEDIENT 101"

 

 Key Passage: I Samuel 12:15; Supporting Scriptures: I Samuel 28:18, Deuteronomy 11:28,  I Kings 13:21,  Jeremiah 12:17, Ephesians 5:6, 2 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Timothy 1:9, Hebrews 2:2; 2:3

Subject:           The Danger of Disobedient:

Disobedience Leads to Sin and Death

The disobedience of Adam brought sin and death into the world. But Christ's perfect obedience restores our fellowship with God, for everyone who believes in him.

Romans 5:19:
For as by the one man's [Adam's] disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's [Christ's] obedience the many will be made righteous. (ESV)

1 Corinthians 15:22:
"For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive." (ESV) Through Obedience We Experience the Blessings of Holy Living only Jesus Christ is perfect, therefore, only he could walk in sinless obedience. But as we allow the Holy Spirit to transform us from within, we grow in holiness.

Psalm 119:1–8:
"Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don't give up on me! 

Isaiah 48:17–19:
This is what the LORD says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is good for you and leads you along the paths you should follow. Oh, that you had listened to my commands! Then you would have had peace flowing like a gentle river and righteousness rolling over you like waves in the sea. Your descendants would have been like the sands along the seashore—too many to count! There would have been no need for your destruction, or for cutting off your family name." 

II Corinthians 7:1:
Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. 

The verse above says, "Let us work toward complete holiness." So, we don't learn obedience overnight; it's a lifelong process that we pursue by making it a daily goal.

 Obeying God is essential to pleasing Him:

Disobedience sends a message to the Lord, declaring that we know better than He does when it comes to our lives and the circumstances surrounding them.

God loves us and is committed to us. He commands our obedience, not because He is a strict taskmaster, but because He knows the devastating effects disobedience and sin will have on our lives. Satan, however, has another goal in mind. He seeks to tempt believers to disobey God, usually by telling them the Lord's promises cannot be trusted and that we can enjoy life more if we ignore His commands. Remember, disobedience always has fierce repercussions—feelings of guilt, shame, and worthlessness, broken lives, destroyed marriages, and bitter disputes, among them. While sin can never change God's eternal love for His children, it certainly disrupts our fellowship with the Savior and alienates us from His blessings. In times of disobedience, we become spiritually weak and unable to discern right from wrong. We sink deeper into sin's grasp and find it impossible to reverse our sinfulness on our own.

As we apply the following principles to our lives, we will begin to obey God with confidence and joy, knowing that He can be fully trusted to keep all of His promises:

Trust God with your life and all that concerns you:

There is no way to go wrong if you place your hope and trust in God. He created you and He loves you with an eternal love. Therefore, He will always lead you in the very best way possible.

Wait on the Lord for an answer to your problem or situation:

When in doubt, refuse to move ahead unless you know God is leading you.

Meditate on God's Word:

When you saturate your mind with the Word of God, you gain His viewpoint. When a temptation comes, you will know right from wrong and can act accordingly.

Listen to the Holy Spirit:

God continues to speak to His people today. He speaks to us through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and through the words of a pastor or trusted Christian friend. We become sensitive to the Spirit of God by spending time with Him—praying and studying the principles in Scripture.

Be willing to wait or walk away when the way before you is unclear:

If you desire to please God above all others, obedience to Him will require you to remain firm. If you do not sense clear guidance in your situation, ask God to confirm His will to you in His Word. He will never contradict Scripture. His will for your life always lines up perfectly with what the Bible says.

Be willing to endure conflict:

When the nation of Israel entered the Promised Land at God's direction, she had to face strong enemy opposition. God rarely empties our lives of trouble and conflict. If He did, we would not have any reason to depend upon Him. He allows enough difficulty to keep us turned toward Him.

Leave the consequences to God:

Obedience may not be easy—you may receive criticism from others or face fierce obstacles and opposition—but it will always put you in a favorable position before God. He will take care of all that concerns you. Stay on the path of obedience and leave the rest to Him.

Biblical Example of Disobedient to God:

Genesis 3:11

"¹¹ And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?

Genesis 19:26

²⁶ But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt.

Leviticus 10:1

10 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the Lord, which he commanded them not.

Numbers 20:11

¹¹ And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.

Joshua 7:1

7 But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against the children of Israel.

I Samuel 13:13

¹³ And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the Lord thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the Lord have established thy kingdom upon Israel forever.

Jonah 1:3

³ But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.

Zephaniah 3:2

² She obeyed not the voice; she received not correction; she trusted not in the Lord; she drew not near to her God.

Week # 5         Obedient Question:                In John 9:1–6 Jesus said He healed a man to show what truth?

Week # 5         Application Question:           How does disobedience affect our relationship with God?

Week # 5         Obedience Bible Quiz:           True or False  Week # 5

1. We cannot profess to be a Christian without obeying Christ.

2.  We show obedience to God by keeping His commandments even when they are grievous.

3. Sacrifice is greater than Obedience.

This Week's Prayer:

Father God, God of mercy and truth, we stand before You with a heart of humbleness, and a desire to obey You with all our hearts. Disobedient has played a part in our lives and we ask for forgiveness right now. Please, Holy Spirit, teach us to obey the Almighty God.  As we study this lesson show us ways we are not obeying You in Jesus' name.  Dear heavenly Father, we want to live godly in Christ Jesus and we ask that You would help us to develop an attitude of obedience to Your will and an increasing trust in Your Word. Help us to grow in grace, and to develop the right godly practice and scripture purpose in life, so that You are lifted up in our hearts and glorified in all we do. May we learn to praise You without ceasing and to develop an attitude of prayerfulness – and help us to be obedient to carry out all that we are called to do as a child of God – so that You increase as we decrease, AMEN.

 Week # 5         Memory Verse:           Romans 5:19

"For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous."

 Weekly Reading Assignments:           Week # 5         I Corinthians 15-II Corinthians 6

BIBLE STUDY: SHARING POINTS:

 

 

Week # 4        Obedient Question:               How does Christ's complete obedience evidence His own deity and humanity?

Answer:

In the book of Matthew we see that Jesus lived exactly as the Scriptures predicted in order that the Scriptures would be fulfilled through His obedient to the Father, even though Christ Himself, being the second person of the trinity show us that humanity can live an obedient to God, and to live out in minute detail what God had said speaks volumes about the authority that Scripture is to have in our lives, so we too can live an obedient life to God.

Week # 4        Application Question:           How would our disobedience affect others?

Answer:

Jonah's disobedience did not only cause his very life to be threatened, but those he was with were endangered, as well.  When we sin or disobey God, it affects those around us. 

 

Week # 4 Week # 4    Obedience Bible Quiz:           True or False 

1. By faith and being warned of God of things already known, Noah obeyed God and built an ark. False

2. By faith Abraham obeyed God and went into an unknown country. True

3. We are to obey those spiritual leaders that God has placed in our lives. True

Answer:

1).   By faith and being warned of God of things already known, Noah obeyed God and built an ark. False (Hebrews 11:7

 "By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

 

2).   By faith Abraham obeyed God and went into an unknown country. True (Hebrews 11:8)

 

"By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

 

3).  We are to obey those spiritual leaders that God has placed in our lives.  True (Hebrews 13:17)

 

"Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you."

 

Week" # 4      Memory Verse:           Psalm 119:11 

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

 

Week # 4        Reading Assignments:           I Corinthians 8-14

 

I am still working on my reading assignment

Bible Study: This Week's Prayer Week # 4

 

Father God, we are so honored to be children, we are so blessed to know You and to be able to obey Your Word, but sometimes we don't know how, and when we don't know how to obey You and Your Word, please Father teach us through Your Holy Spirit, and we will follow Your led. Holy Spirit have Your way in our life today, teach us to do God's will for His glory. Christ obeyed You and we desire to obey You too.  Please, Holy Spirit teach us to know what is required to obey the Father's will in our lives today. We honor You, we praise You, we give You glory for the work Your Holy Spirit does in our life. Thank You Jesus, for dying for our sins and showing us the importance of obeying the Father. AMEN.

Bible Study: "The School of Obedient" Week # 3

More: Jesus' childhood obedience

 

 

Jesus was well aware of His origin and the mission given to Him by His Father in heaven. Even at the age of 12, He had a strong desire to "be about [His] Father's business" (Luke 2:49).

That desire was again pointed out to Mary when He performed His first miracle in the Galilean town of Cana by turning water into wine (John 2:1–12). At a wedding feast, the supply of wine was depleted. Mary saw the need and wanted to help. She explained the situation to her son, who replied, "Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come" (verse 4).

 

Although Jesus didn't address Mary as "Mother," the term Woman was one of endearment in those days. Jesus respected His mother, but He had a more important mission than that of providing wine for a wedding feast. The time had not yet come when He would perform miracles in a public ministry.

 

Mary's faith in her son's ability to solve the problem is illustrated by her instruction to the servants: "Whatever He says to you, do it" (verse 5). Jesus then performed the miracle of changing more than 120 gallons of water into wine.

After that event in Cana, Jesus "went down to Capernaum, He, His mother, His brothers, and His disciples, and they did not stay there many days" (verse 12).

Bible Study: "The School of Obedient" Week # 4

"OBEDIENT 101"

Key Passage: Psalm 103:19  Supporting Scripture: Genesis 12:1; Joshua 1:8-9; 6:1-20; Psalm 27:14;  Isaiah 64:4; Matthew 5:6; 26:39; Mark 4:24; Luke 22:42; Acts 5:29; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 4:25-32; Hebrews 11:6; 1 John 1:9.

Subject:           What does Obedient Require?

Reviews:

Obeying God isn't always easy, but it is always the wisest thing to do. Meditating on God's Word, following His instruction, and trusting Him to provide for your needs are the cornerstone of obedience. You will be rewarded with immeasurable blessings when you trust and obey.

Obedience can be defined as doing what God says, how He says, and when He says to do it. We   might prefer to redefine it in another way, but this is exactly what the Lord expects of us. Furthermore, He always enables us to do whatever He requires. Yet there may be times when we're afraid to obey Him because we don't know what will happen as a result. Sometimes obedience is costly. However, if we know that He's our loving heavenly Father who always does what's best for us, we'll be able to trust Him and leave all the consequences to Him.  Obedience is not always easy, but it's essential if we want to live in accordance with God's will.

Obedience requires the following characteristics. We must be willing to …           

Recognize that God is the sovereign ruler of this universe: 

Because He allows human beings the freedom to make decisions which sometimes results in heartache, suffering, and even disaster, it may seem like He's not in control; however, Psalm 103: 19 assures us that "His sovereignty rules over all."  When we acknowledge His right as the Creator to reign over the earth, we also recognize our responsibility to submit to Him as our authority. 

Have faith:

If we're going to obey God, we must believe what He says.  Hebrews 11:6 says, "He who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him." The Lord loves and has chosen the best path for our lives if we will follow Him. But unbelief is the enemy of obedience, and the consequences of rebelling against Him are terrible.

Be courageous:

When the Lord picked Joshua to lead His people into the Promised Land, He told him, "Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). God knew that as Joshua obeyed, he would face all kinds of difficulties and challenges that required confident boldness. This has been the common experience of all the Lord's prophets and apostles, and it will be the same for us as well. We must be careful not to let fear stop us from fully obeying the Lord.

Wait upon the Lord:

God's timing is always perfect, but from our perspective, it may seem slow. If we focus on the circumstances or the advice of others, we may be tempted to jump ahead of the Lord, but Isaiah 64:4 says, that God "acts in behalf of the one who waits on Him." When we wait for the Lord, we are not sitting idle but are being sensitive to His direction before making decisions. He knows all the facts and the perfect timing for every situation.

Meditate on God's Word. To obey, we must first know what the Lord wants us to do. That's why He told Joshua, "This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it" (Joshua 1:8).  To meditate means to mull something over in our minds and reflect on it. If we desire to follow the Lord, the Bible must fill our minds and hearts and become our text for living. Meditation helps us thoughtfully consider His directions, promises, and truths and apply them to our lives. As we read and meditate on His Word, it will challenge us to examine ourselves, and if necessary, change our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors.

Learn to listen to the Lord:

Since so many voices could lead us astray, we must be careful what we listen to (Mark 4:24). God wants to speak to us if we're willing to quietly listen for the Holy Spirit's inaudible voice. Sometimes during prayer, He may lay something on our heart or give us a sense of direction regarding a direction we must make. However, the Lord never tells us anything that contradicts His Word. That's why meditation on the Scripture is essential. It's our source of guidance, comfort, and strength. If a particular passage grabs our attention, we should pause and ask the Lord if He's trying to tell us something. Then as we meditate on those verses, God will begin to shape our minds to think the way He does.

Suffer a head-on collision with the world, if necessary:

When Peter and the disciples were told by the Sanhedrin not to preach the gospel, they said, "We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29). This is the same choice we may be called to make as we live in this world. For example, on the job we could be asked to do something that is contrary to our faith or told not to do something which God commands.  There may be times when we have to go against people and their expectations in order to obey the Lord.

Forsake any and all sin:

There is no way to walk obediently with God while tolerating sin in our lives. According to (Ephesians 4:25-31), we are to lay aside all our sinful practices. This doesn't mean we have to be perfect, but when the Holy Spirit convicts us of a particular sin, our first response should be confession, followed by repentance. And if a sin keeps cropping up, we must continually deal with it until it ceases to have a hold on us. AMEN.

Surrender our will to the Lord:

When it comes to obedience, we should have the same attitude as Jesus, who said, "Yet not my will, but Yours be done," (Luke 22:42). Each morning, we need to yield everything to the Lord, wanting only what pleases and honors Him.  However, if we don't yield to His will, we'll follow our own desires and eventually suffer the consequences of our disobedience.

Walk where the way is unclear:

God doesn't always give us full understanding of the path He wants us to walk.  When He called Abraham, He told him to leave his country and go to the land He would show him (Genesis 12:1). Abraham didn't know where he was going, but God faithfully led him each step of the way. And sometimes that's the way the Lord works in our lives. He doesn't show us the entire picture up front but promises to guide us if we'll take one step of faith at a time.

Response:

Read through the requirements of obedience again. Which ones are the hardest for you? Which are the easiest?

How is your obedience affected by your level of trust in the Lord? What circumstances or outcomes cause you to doubt that His way is the best way? What can you do to increase your trust in Him?

Summary:

Obedience can be costly, confusing, and challenging, if we don't trust that the Lord is faithful in our lives.  Our heavenly Father always does what's best for us when we leave all the consequences to Him.

Week # 4         Obedient Question:                How does Christ's complete obedience evidence His own deity and humanity?

Week # 4         Application Question:            How would our disobedience affect others?

Week # 4 Week # 4     Obedience Bible Quiz:            True or False 

1. By faith and being warned of God of things already known, Noah obeyed God and built an ark.

2. By faith Abraham obeyed God and went into an unknown country.

3. We are to obey those spiritual leaders that God has placed in our lives.

Week # 4         Prayer:

Father God, we are so honored to be children, we are so blessed to know You and to be able to obey Your Word, but sometimes we don't know how, and when we don't know how to obey You and Your Word, please Father teach us through Your Holy Spirit, and we will follow Your led. Holy Spirit have Your way in our life today, teach us to do God's will for His glory. Christ obeyed You and we desire to obey You too.  Please, Holy Spirit teach us to know what is required to obey the Father's will in our lives today. We honor You, we praise You, we give You glory for the work Your Holy Spirit does in our life. Thank You Jesus, for dying for our sins and showing us the importance of obeying the Father. AMEN.

Week # 4         Memory Verse:           Psalm 119:11 

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

Week # 4        Reading Assignments:           I Corinthians 8-14

Bible Study: Sharing Points: Week # 3

Prayer…………

Father God, Bless us to live a life of obedient to You, we desire to obey You in all we do. Help us to obey our parents, our employer, our spiritual leaders, and the law of the land. Father God, help us to obey You even in difficult situations. You have been with us and we always need You to be with us as we walk the walk of faith to honor You.  Father, forgive us for the times we have disobeyed You. In Jesus' name be with us. Let the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart always be accepted in Your sight as we learn to obey You. AMEN.

 

Week # 3          Obedient Question:               What event in Jesus's childhood illustrates His desire to honor His Father?

Answer:         

Going to the cross showed obedience. "And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross" (Philippians 2:8).

Week # 3         Application Question:            How does our obedience affect others?

Answer:

My cooperation with God can bring a blessing or a curse to those around me. Here's an example of how one person's obedience brings blessing on a nation in Deuteronomy 28:1-2: My cooperation with God can either stop or start a storm in your life. This principle is vividly illustrated in the book of Jonah. God called Jonah to bring a message of repentance to Nineveh, a major city. Jonah refuses his commission and chooses to flee God's calling by boarding a ship. Jonah's disobedience threatened the lives of everyone on board. (Jonah 1:1-4).

Week # 3         Obedience Bible Quiz:           True or False 

1. Scripture teaches it is right for children to obey their parents.

2. Peter said sometimes it is better to obey the laws of the land instead of God.

3. Obedience should come from the heart.

Answer:

Week # 3         Obedience Bible Quiz:           True or False 

1. Scripture teaches it is right for children to obey their parents. True

2. Peter said sometimes it is better to obey the laws of the land instead of God. False

3. Obedience should come from the heart. True

Week # 3         Memory Verse:           I Samuel 15:22

"And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams."

Week # 3         Reading Assignments:           I Corinthians 1-7

Reading my assignment now!

Bible Study: The School of Obedient: Week # 3

"OBEDIENT 101"

Key Passage: Genesis 2:15-16: Supporting Scripture: 1 Samuel 12:15; John 14:15, 21, 23-24; Ephesians 6:1-3

Subject:           Obedience in the Life of the Believer:

The first lesson on obedience is found in the very beginning of the Bible.  

Adam and Eve lived in a perfect environment, surrounded by beauty and abundance. If they had obeyed God, they would have continued to live in the midst of all His blessings; but since they disobeyed, they suffered the consequences of violating His command.

POINTS TO LEARN:

This same principle of obedience still applies to us today. Blessings come with obedience, but disobedience brings problems, heartaches, and burdens.

Obedience is the first lesson we should teach in the home.
Just as almighty God is our authority and we are to obey Him, so children are to honor and obey their parents. Our obedience to the Lord includes faithfully teaching our children to be obedient. (Ephesians 6:1) says, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right."

Obedience starts in the morning.
Each day should begin with prayer asking God for a sensitive spirit. We need His help to rightly interact with people and deal with the circumstances we encounter. When we begin the morning with a sincere desire to obey the Lord, we'll be reminded to continually turn to Him for guidance and strength throughout the day.

An obedient life is not one of perfection.
We won't always make the right choices and do what God wants, but a godly person who desires to obey will immediately feel the conviction of the Holy Spirit.    When we are filled and controlled by the Spirit, our first response to sin will be confession and repentance. And if we've offended someone else, we will quickly go to that person and ask forgiveness. But if we delay, thinking, "I'll take care of this tomorrow," we may end up putting if off for weeks, months, or even years. And that is disobedience.

The opposite of obedience is rebellion.
Since God is our ultimate authority, any time we choose not to heed His commands, we rebel against Him. Then we shouldn't wonder why we're experiencing trouble and conflicts. Samuel told God's people, "If you will not listen to the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the command of the LORD, then the hand of the LORD will be against you, as it was against your fathers" (I Samuel 12:15). This is a valuable lesson that we need to pass down to our children. Sometimes the anger and conflicts in the home are the result of parents not following the Lord, and children not obeying their parents.

Obedience is doing what God says, how he says, and when He says to do it. 

Oftentimes we'd prefer to redefine these terms, but the elimination of any one of these results in disobedience. Partial obedience is still rebellion against the Lord.  For example, suppose we believe that God wants us to give a certain portion of our income to Him, but instead of giving Him the full amount, we decide to give less. Or maybe He calls us into ministry, missions, or some other area of service, but we delay or alter our response to the call. Instead of becoming a missionary, we decide to focus on becoming financially successful so we can give more money to the Lord's work. Or maybe we sidestep God's clear call to preach the gospel and opt to teach Sunday school instead. Anytime we dictate the terms of our obedience, we are not doing what the Lord has told us to do. We may think that offering an alternate form of obedience ought to please Him, but it won't. Because God loves us, He wants us to follow His commands so we can receive the blessings that follow. This is the only way to spare us from the negative consequences that inevitably come with disobedience.

Obedience is the proof of our love for Christ. 

Three time in the fourteenth chapter of John, Jesus equates loving Him with obedience (John 14:15, 21, 23).  Many of us claim to love Christ, yet we'd have to admit that our actions don't always support our assertion. Our love for Him should motivate and prompt us to keep His Word and please Him in all we do.

Obedience is not only the will of God, but it's the best way to live.
The Lord gave us His commands for our own good. Any time we try to manipulate or maneuver around them, we are settling for second best. We can never improve on God has said. Like a loving Father, He protects us by giving us rules to guide our lives. And if we go astray, He provides stinging consequences, which motivate us to return to the path of obedience.  When we follow the Lord's instructions, they influence every area of our lives. Each day as we encounter various situations, we'll ask ourselves, "What has God said about this?" For instance, if someone wrongs us at work, we'll remember that Jesus said to forgive others. Although we may not be able to quote a verse, we'll know what's right and wrong. Furthermore, we have the Holy Spirit living within us who prompts us to do what's right. And if we sin, He convicts us with deep sorrow over our disobedience so we will repent and change. In our own strength, we can't overcome our sins, but the Spirit give us the power to develop godly attitudes, actions, and habits.

What is our motivation for obedience?

·         A reverence for who God is.

He deserves our obedience because He is our holy, sovereign Lord who gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross so we could be forgiven.

 ·         A desire to please Him. 

If we revere and love Him, we won't want to displease Him in any area of our lives. Furthermore, disobedience never gives us what we truly want-peace, joy, and happiness. Even if the path of obedience is painful, it is still the best option.

 Obedience in the Bible

Unfortunately, it is natural for most to not want to obey any authority. Often, it is a challenge to humble ourselves to submit to a power over us. In many lives a power struggle rages as children do not want to obey parents, employees resist obeying employers or even citizens refuse to obey laws. To some, obedience is no longer a struggle; as they have made up their minds a long time ago not to obey anyone but themselves, and certainly not to let anyone have any rule or reign over them. Like it or not, all of us have to obey someone or an authority over us for the rest of our lives. If there is not order, there will be anarchy and disorder.  Ever since the Garden of Eden, man has struggled with whom he will obey. Someone pointed out that a main theme of the Bible is government; who will govern whom. Will it be God that rules and reigns in our lives, or will we not even obey Him, and instead be our own master? No matter what we have convinced ourselves to believe, or what has been drummed into our head, there is a godly command to obey many things. Here is some of what God's Word has to say about obedience: All have a command to submit to God's law. "Thou shalt therefore obey the voice of the LORD thy God, and do his commandments and his statutes, which I command thee this day." Deuteronomy 27:10 Also: Psalm 18:44

Obedience to His commandments is very important to God.
"And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." I Samuel 15:22 

 The context of this verse is concerning Israel, but it reveals the heart of God concerning obedience to Him. Because of Adam and Eve's refusal to obey one of God's commands, all are born as sinners and will have to battle sin's control the rest of their lives.

"For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous." Romans 5:19

 Many of the things in this world obey God. His word mentions that the weather, waves, animals, and the rest of His creation obey Him. It is a shame when we, who are created in His image, do not obey Him at all times. "… for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him." Mark 1:27Also: Matthew 8:27, Mark 4:41

 Whether one admits it or not, he is obeying someone all the time. All are servants to one master, be it the Master of the universe, or master of our own selfish desires. 

"Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof." Romans 6:12 Also: Romans 6:16

 God reminds us throughout the Bible, that life will be a lot easier and more blessed by Him, if we simply obey what He tells us to do.

"A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you this day: And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known." Deut. 11:27-28 Although the context is a command to Israel, the principle applies to the believer today, when he obeys the Lord. Also I Sam. 12:14-15

 All people will have to obey someone in the future. If they do not learn obedience at a younger age, they may have a problem obeying authority in the future. That is one reason why God commands children to submit to the authority of their parents.

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right." Ephesians 6:1 Also Colossians 3:20, Prov. 30:17, Exodus 20:12

 Men should obey God. This is part of God's plan of the hierarchy of leadership. 

"But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God." I Corinthians 11:3

Wives are to obey their husbands.
"Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything." Ephesians 5:24 Also: I Peter 3:1

 We need to obey our employer.

"Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye service, as men pleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:" Colossians 3:22 Also: Titus 2:9

 We are to obey authorities over us. This includes teachers, police, and government. Not obeying the authority over us is disobeying God.

"Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you." Hebrews 13:7 Also: Titus 3:1 

However, when the commands and laws of the government or our authority contradict what God commands us to do; we should always obey God first. 

"… We ought to obey God rather than men." Acts 5:29 The local church should obey God's commands.

"Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ …" Eph. 5:24

Again, no one wants to obey anyone. It is a very difficult thing to do. God, however, has laid out a hierarchy of leadership that will work. We may not like the order of people that we are to submit to, but it is God's plan. His plan works. Choosing whom we will obey usually does not. 

God's commands are for our benefit. Father knows best! As Israel told Joshua, after they learned this truth the hard way, so should our heart's desire be:

"… The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey." Joshua 24:24 

 "Obedience and respect at home prepare the way for obedience to the employer, and they are joined with other virtues that help assure a prosperous career; crowned with a ripe, honored old age. Disrespect for parents is often the first step in the downward track."

— D. L Moody

Because God loves us, He wants us to follow His commands so we can receive the blessings that follow. Staying in God's will by being obedient bring blessings we would otherwise miss.

A Life of Obedience:  Scripture: Acts 5:14-29

 How do you make decisions? Do you try to determine what will benefit you the most, or perhaps you strive to please or impress others? Maybe you let emotions take control or attempt to make a logical choice. Wise men and women learn to obey God, and leave all the consequences to Him. There is nothing more important in life than following Jesus and trusting Him to care for your needs.

 What does the Bible say about obeying God?

A. Biblical Example: When the apostles were told to stop preaching in Jesus' name, they responded, "We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29).

B. Sowing and Reaping: Galatians 6:7 says, "Whatever a man sows, this he will also reap." Every action has an impact, for good or evil. Our decisions, and the choices of others, determine the quality of our lives.

C. Disobedient Biblical Characters: The Bible says, "Be sure your sin will find you out" (Num. 32:23). Imagine how different the stories in Scripture would be if mankind knew what disobeying God would cost:

1. Adam and Eve would never have eaten the forbidden fruit.
2. The nation of Israel would have chosen to fight for the Promised Land the first time around instead of wandering 40 years in the desert.
3. After seeing Bathsheba bathing, David would have turned away and walked back inside.
4. Jonah would have willingly traveled to Ninevah to preach the Word of God.

D. Faithful Biblical Characters: The Lord rewarded those who were willing to follow His commands:

1. Noah was asked to build a massive boat—which made him the laughing stock of his community. But he was ready when the flood came.
2. Moses, a desert nomad, had to appear before Pharaoh, the leader of a powerful civilization, and demand freedom for the Israelites. Ultimately, the people were allowed to go.
3. Joshua was told to march around Jericho for seven days instead of relying on the military tactics he knew. And God destroyed the enemy.
4. Nehemiah boldly asked the Babylonian king for supplies to rebuild Jerusalem and received all he needed, including guards to help him safely reach the city.
5. In captivity, Daniel and his three friends refused to eat meat because it was not prepared according to Hebrew dietary laws. Yet they were healthier than all the other young men.
6. Peter and the apostles refused to stop preaching about Jesus, even though they were threatened with flogging and imprisonment.

E. The Requirements: As believers, we must:

1. Believe that God is sovereign—He controls all things at all times (Ps. 103:19).
2. Trust that He will work for our good in every situation and circumstance (Rom. 8:28).
3. Love the Lord. The Bible says we show our love for Him by obeying His commands (1 John 5:3)—and not just when they are convenient and desirable.
4. Listen to Him. When you pray, make time to hear what He has to say.
5. Be courageous. Obeying God takes courage because following His will often leads to conflict. You must be willing to do what is right anyway.
6. Fully surrender to Him.

F. The Results of Obedience

1. You will experience personal victory if you follow His will, even if the world does not consider you a success. (See Josh. 1:8.)
2. Obedience leads to supernatural peace and joy in every circumstance.
3. Spiritual growth and maturity results when believers continue to walk with God in the midst of suffering.

G. Application

1. God may ask you to do something that doesn't make sense from a human perspective.
2. The Father may lead you to give up a hobby or donate a valuable item.
3. He may prompt you to give financially when money is scarce.
4. The Lord might want you to serve in your church or take a leadership role although you feel inadequate.

 Conclusion: When you need to make an important decision, don't rely primarily on your own reasoning, the opinions of others, or even what worked in the past. Get on your knees before the Lord and pour out your heart. Spend time prayerfully reading His Word. Listen for His voice, and then follow His specific guidance for your life.

Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him. If you will take to heart this one principle, you will have the awesome privilege of watching the Lord accomplish great things in and through you.

Week # 3        Obedient Question:               What event in Jesus's childhood illustrates His desire to honor His Father?

Week # 3        Application Question:           How does our obedience affect others?

Week # 3        Obedience Bible Quiz:           True or False  Week # 3

1. Scripture teaches it is right for children to obey their parents.  

2. Peter said sometimes it is better to obey the laws of the land instead of God.

3. Obedience should come from the heart.

Prayer………

Father God, Bless us to live a life of obedient to You, we desire to obey You in all we do. Help us to obey our parents, our employer, our spiritual leaders, and the law of the land. Father God, help us to obey You even in difficult situations. You have been with us and we always need You to be with us as we walk the walk of faith to honor You.  Father, forgive us for the times we have disobeyed You. In Jesus' name be with us. Let the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart always be accepted in Your sight as we learn to obey You. AMEN.

Week # 3        Memory Verse:           I Samuel 15:22

"And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams."      

Week # 3        Reading Assignments:           I Corinthians 1-7