Disobedience and Its Impact on Our Relationships with God and the Church
The Impact on Our Relationship with God
Our obedience to God is a reflection of our faith and love for Him. Jesus emphasized the importance of obedience when He said, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments" (John 14:15, ESV). Obedience is not about legalism but about maintaining a close, loving relationship with God. When we live in disobedience, we essentially turn away from God’s guidance and blessings, leading to a spiritual disconnect.
The Impact on Our Relationship with the Church
The church, as the body of Christ, thrives on unity and mutual support. Disobedience affects this unity. The Apostle Paul addressed this in 1 Corinthians 5:11-13, where he instructed the church to distance themselves from those living in persistent sin: "But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. 'Purge the evil person from among you.'"
This instruction might seem harsh, but it serves a dual purpose: to protect the integrity of the church and to encourage the sinner to repent. Genuine faith should manifest in righteous living. As James 2:17 states, "So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
The Litmus Test of Faith
Since we cannot see into each other's hearts to know if someone is truly saved, we rely on observable actions and the witness of the Holy Spirit within us. Righteousness, then, becomes our badge of membership in the body of Christ. When a believer lives in ongoing disobedience, that badge is effectively removed, causing other believers to question their fellowship.
1 John 3:9-10 provides a clear distinction: "No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother."
Restoring Fellowship
The goal of addressing disobedience is always restoration. Galatians 6:1 urges, "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted." The church should approach those living in disobedience with love and the desire to see them restored to right relationship with God and the community.
Conclusion
Living in obedience is essential for maintaining a strong, vibrant relationship with God and harmonious fellowship within the church. Disobedience disrupts these relationships, affecting both our spiritual well-being and the unity of the body of Christ. In the hustle and bustle of life, let us strive to wear our badge of righteousness proudly, supporting one another in faith and love. By doing so, we reflect the grace and truth of Christ in every aspect of our lives.
0 Comments