In the ongoing series on obedience, I offer two final thoughts for now. It is important to understand the fullness of the gospel, that while we will be living in love for our heavenly Father and loving our friends, enemies, and neighbors, we can NOT do this in our own strength. It’s also important to know what the gospel looks like when we fail to obey.
5. How can we do these impossible things?
By the power of the Holy Spirit.
“Now, however, being changed in heart, motivated by gratitude for acceptance through free grace, and energized by the Holy Spirit, they “serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code” (Rom. 7:6). This means that their attempts at obedience are now joyful and integrated in a way that was never true before. Sin rules them no longer. In this respect, too, they have been liberated from bondage.”
J.I. Packer, Concise Theology
6. What do we do when we don’t obey God?
a. I John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Come back to the King, who is also your Father, who has adopted you and will NEVER CONDEMN you because Christ was condemned for that sin. Bow before him, tell Him the truth about what you’ve done, and hear his words of forgiveness and love:
Remember this story from Luke 15:
“When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: ‘Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son ever again.
BUT THE FATHER WASN’T LISTENING. He was calling to his servants…”We’re going to feast! We’re going to have a wonderful time! My son is here – given up for dead and now alive! Given up for lost and now found!’ And they began to have this wonderful time!”
Always return to the one who is waiting for you, running after you, because
[1]Packer, J. I. (1995, c1993). Concise theology : A guide to historic Christian beliefs. Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House.
