Thank God that your slavery to sin has ended and that in your new freedom you pledged your heartfelt obedience to that teaching which was passed on to you.

Romans 6:17 (TLV)

 

So much preaching and teaching has been motivational rather than transformational. This is because we live in a culture that prioritises personal fulfilment over personal obedience. We cannot love and follow Jesus only as long as it is convenient. After all, discipleship goes beyond the threshold of one’s own ambition and advantage. And when we make it about us, we have forgotten the gospel, and everything that comes with it.

Obedience is the truest expression of our sonship in Christ.

Being given new life in Christ Jesus, we are made alive in His Spirit to do the will of the Father. It is through this new life that our desire to change the world grows stronger and more irresistible. This is because His Spirit is continually transforming us into His image and holiness, allowing us to see the world through His eyes. As such, we go into the world with faith and courage, resting in His promise that we will do greater works than Him (John 14:12).

There is nothing better in our Christian life than to hear God and step out in faith. The Apostle Paul commended the Romans for exercising their freedom to walk in truth and righteousness. This is something we must all learn and do. Our obedience will lead us to spiritual maturity, and we will bear fruit for the Kingdom.