Theme: DEMANDS OF TRUE DISCIPLESHIP
Text: “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” – Philippians 2:12.
Comment: Obedience is one of the sterling qualities of our Lord and Master Jesus Christ. He himself attested to his obedience to the will of God when he said: “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me” – John 6:38; 5:30.
The obedience of Jesus Christ was shown by the fact that it is what God instructed him to say that he said. (John 12:49) St. Paul charged the Corinthian Christians in those days to be followers of him (i.e. to be obedient to the things he had taught them) when he said: “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1,2.
As true Christians, we are enjoined to obey those who are in positions of authority in the Church of God. (Hebrews 13:7,17). St. Peter added his voice when he said that we should submit ourselves (i.e. be obedient) to instructions of leaders in God’s organization in obedience to God Almighty (1 Peter 2:13-15). It should be borne in mind that putting up great zeal and commitment to the work of God only when leaders are present and being negligent at their absence is termed EYE SERVICE and not expected of true Christians. – Ephesians 6:6-8.