1. This morning we showed from Proverbs 3:5-6 how God will direct the paths of those who comply with certain conditions. 2. This evening we are studying another important subject that relates to complying with conditions for receiving God's blessings: "obeying God." 3. For our first point, let us see how . . .
Discussion:
I. OBEYING GOD WAS EMPHASIZED IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
A. Genesis 2:15-17 1. God revealed His will to Adam, and God required Adam to obey it. 2. God informed Adam that he would face severe consequences if he disobeyed. B. Deuteronomy 28 1. God said He would bless the Israelites if they obeyed His commands (vs.1-2). 2. God also said He would curse the Israelites if they disobeyed Him (vs.15). C. 1 Kings 1. God promised to bless Solomon if he would walk in God's ways (3:12-14). 2. Solomon's disobedience resulted in severe consequences (11:1-2, 6-11). D. According to Romans 15:4, these Old Testament passages "were written for our learning."
II. OBEYING GOD IS ALSO EMPHASIZED IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
A. Jesus stressed the importance of doing the Father's will as He concluded His Sermon on the Mount. 1. (Matthew 7:21-23) Only those who do the will of the Father may enter heaven. 2. (Matthew 7:24-27) Jesus illustrated the importance of hearing and doing His teachings as He contrasted a wise man and a foolish man (James 1:22, 25). 3. "Love" should motivate a person to obey: a. the commands of God (1 John 5:3) b. the commands of Christ (John 14:15). B. "Obeying the Gospel" is a requirement for going to heaven (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9). C. Jesus "learned" obedience Himself, and He provides salvation to those who obey Him (Hebrews 5:8-9).
Conclusion:
1. This morning we referred to Naaman in 2 Kings 5. 2. Naaman was cleansed of leprosy when he obeyed the instructions he was given. 3. The Lord cleanses us of sin when we obey the instructions that He gives us (Mark 16:15-16).
