1. Prior to this, the apostles were placed in prison. 2. An angel opened the prison doors and brought the apostles out. 3. In vs.20 the angel told the apostles what to do, and they obeyed (vs.21a). 4. We learn from vs.27-28 that the apostles were brought before the council and interrogated by the high priest. 5. The apostles made their classic response in vs.29. 6. This morning we are basing our lesson on the first part of their response: "we ought to obey God." 7. For our first point, let us see how . . . Discussion: I. THE OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES EMPHASIZED "OBEYING GOD"
A. The principle of "obeying God" is taught at the beginning of the Bible (see 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. Moses instructed the Israelites to obey God before they entered the Promised Land (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. Let us consider God's dealings with Solomon in 1 Kings. 1. God promised to bless Solomon if he would walk in God's ways (3:14). 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. THE NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES ALSO EMPHASIZE "OBEYING God"
A. Let us consider the Lord's example. 1. Jesus was committed to obeying the Father (John 8:29). 2. According to Hebrews 5:7-9, Jesus learned obedience. B. Let us consider the Lord's teaching. 1. The Lord revealed a special blessing for certain people in Luke 11:28. 2. (Matthew 7:21-23) Only those who do the will of the Father may enter heaven. C. Let us consider several additional passages. 1. "Love" should motivate a person to obey the commands of God (1 John 5:3). 2. Christians are to be "obedient children" (1 Peter 1:13-16). 3. In order for our souls to be purified we must obey the truth (1 Peter 1:22-23). Conclusion:
1. We have seen from the Scriptures that "we ought to obey God." 2. In closing let us reflect upon one of the Lord's miracles (John 9:1-7). a. These verses tell us about a man who had a need -- he was born blind. b. Jesus told the man what to do. c. He obeyed the Lord and was able to see. d. This man would agree with Mary's statement in John 2:5.