Obedience: A Broader Perspective (2)
Introduction:
We
need a better understanding & broader perspective on obedience in Churches
of Christ. Our religion must not stem from a collection of checklists, but be
the result of a life that is been impacted by God. Everything we do is to be a
response of the heart. We have made obedience too simple. It involves more than
simple acts. If obedience occurs – it MUST involve our mind, heart, and
the act. Obedience depends on understanding God’s priorities &
purposes. If we forget that, we
place our self in a precarious situation.
I. The Pharisees.
A.
In Jesus’ day:
Pharisees best versed, best read, most accurate students of scripture.
1.
Matthew 23:2-3
– Even Jesus acknowledged the accuracy of their factual knowledge.
2.
But yet,
Pharisees viciously attacked everything about Jesus.
B.
A continuing,
constant challenge: Jesus’ teaching on the Sabbath.
II. A Look at Matthew 12:1-7
A.
12:1 – the
situation. 12:2 – the accusation.
B.
12:3-7 –
Jesus’ response:
1.
12:3-4 –
Pharisees formed their own concepts/conclusions before examining the whole of
Scripture.
a.
Old Testament
connection: 1 Samuel 21:1-6.
b.
1 Samuel 21:6
– Priest gave showbread to David. Not condemned.
2.
12:5 –
Pharisees formed their concepts/conclusions without considering exceptions.
a.
Ex. 29:38; Num
28:9 – Priests violated every Sabbath by offering sacrifices.
3.
12:6-7 –
They formed their concepts/conclusions in ignorance of God’s full intentions
& purposes. 12:7 – references Hosea 6.
a.
Hosea 6:7
– Jesus uses this scripture to prove that Pharisees had forgotten about
compassion and mercy.
III. Are God’s commands necessary? Does this give us
an out to ignore His expectations?
A.
Laws &
commands have a purpose. Laws are good.
1.
Rom 7:7 –
Laws restrain evil. Laws commend good behavior.
B.
God’s laws
maintain order/justice/decency. Give us structure in worship/religion.
1.
While we observe
God’s ways – we must not turn it into ritualistic, vain repetition. (Checklist religion).
2.
We must broaden
our perspective! God is not arbitrary.
a.
God’s heart, our
hearts, must be ruled by love – not law!
3.
We must look at
the whole – not just the parts.
IV. We must know Christ.
A.
How do we learn
God’s principles/purposes behind the law?
1.
Become
acquainted with Jesus as much as possible.
a.
John 5:19; 30;
6:38; 14:8-10
2.
When we are
truly impacted by Jesus – it will change the way we treat others.
B.
Sometimes we
have a tendency to get so caught up on what God requires that we fail to
experience all that God has for us.
C.
We must always
place our focus on Jesus. We must
learn of Him. Strive to be like
Him. Focus on worshipping Him.
1.
What did Paul
teach? 1 Cor. 11:1
Conclusion:
A.
We must never
forget about the relationship. Do
you have a relationship with God?
B.
Would you like
to begin a relationship today?