The Insight of Obedience

1 John 5:2-5

The Insight of Obedience
Simple understanding of those verses: Love from Christ = the cross. Love for Christ = obedience. Obedience is not a decision, it is a result.

I have been married 32 years. I have a lot to learn about being a good husband but I have learned some of what does and doesn't work.

what works: I've already vacuumed, don't cook, let's stay a few extra days, you look great in that outfit......

what doesn't: I'm doing the best I can so you'll just have to be ok with the leftovers of what I have after I work and do other things I like.......
she deserves my best any time, every time, all the time.


Interestingly, these same principles apply to your and my relationship with Christ...............


what works: I love your Word and Love your law and I love obeying you; these things are not burdensome; they are a joy.

what doesn't: Lord, I'm doing the best I can so you'll just have to be ok with the leftovers of what I have after I work and do other things I like.......
He deserves your best any time, every time, all the time.


Instead, we offer this flawed reasoning: "since I can't be perfect, then whatever I do in my relationship with Christ must be acceptable."

The underlying rationale sounds like this: "I'll just do the best I can when I can and that will have to be ok because my life, my worries and my wishes really do take priority."

Then we struggle along never quite understanding why things don't work out when we're really trying and are secretly a little miffed at God for not jumping in and helping us.


His patience astonishes me!


Here is the way HE intended things to be (7 takeaways)

1. He is GOD

2. He chose you

3. He doesn't want you to serve Him, He wants you to KNOW him (Matt 6:33 and Phil 4:10).

4. Knowledge (relationship intimacy) begets obedience; sometimes we obey b/c we have to or are forced to or do so out of guilt. There is little reward in such obedience. The obedience that arises out of knowledge (relationship intimacy) is sustainable, transferrable and joyful!

5. Obedience begets understanding (Chambers quote The rule for understanding spiritually is not intellect, but obedience. If a man wants scientific knowledge, intellectual curiosity is his guide; if he want literary knowledge, then literary curiosity it his guide, but if he wants insight into Jesus Christ, he can only get that by obedience. (adapted from Chambers)

6. Obedient understanding demonstrates love to Him

7. Obedient understanding progressively transforms your life and the lives of those around you.


Conclusion: Listen to Phil 3:10

My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death,

Is that your goal as well?

If so, where do you draw the line?

It is important b/c the future of your family and every person you interact with depends on it.)

Everyone in your world knows exactly how much you love God.

Is it enough?