Called to Obey: Living as Christ’s Disciples

Called to Obey: Living as Christ’s Disciples

        At our Life Group last week, we tackled a provocative question: Is obedience to God necessary to flourish? It seems simple, yet it’s a profound challenge for me, and I suspect many Christ followers today.

        Too often, we hear heartbreaking stories of people wounded by churches—places meant to reflect Christ’s love. It’s a sad day when fast food restaurants are more warm and welcoming than churches, and where secular organizations have more integrity, transparency, and uphold the ethical standards we, as God’s people, are called to embody. This should convict us deeply.

        Jesus gave us a clear command: “Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:34-35). Yet, some in leadership abuse power, prioritize personal gain, or act without accountability, tarnishing the church’s witness. Greed, hypocrisy, and scandalous behavior must be rejected. As God’s people, we are called to a higher standard—not the world’s, but Christ’s.

        I believe God is sparking a global revival, but revival begins with conviction of sin and obedience to Jesus. For born-again believers, obedience isn’t a legalistic checklist; it’s the Holy Spirit writing God’s commands on our hearts, guiding us to reject sinful thoughts and actions. As James urges, faith without works is dead (James 2:17).

        Our love for Christ must shine through our actions—tender-hearted treatment of others, humble attitudes, and good deeds done in reverence to Jesus.

        Proverbs 24 reminds us that evil exists, and the devil schemes against God’s purposes. Each of us has the responsibility to choose our path, our company, and our Master. Do we crave the “pure spiritual milk” of God’s Word to grow in salvation (1 Peter 2:2)? Or do we conform to worldly behaviors—deceit, jealousy, and pride?

        Let’s be honest: We are God’s prized possession, called to be His ambassadors, showing the world the freedom and new life found in Christ. Our honorable behavior, rooted in love, humility, and integrity, proves His goodness. We cannot be blind guides but must lead others to the right way.

        So, let’s cry out for God’s nourishment and commit to obeying Christ with the power He provides. Lord Jesus, please help us to reject the devil’s ways; embrace the call to love, serve, and live as true disciples; and let our lives reflect the faith we profess, showing the world that we are Christ’s by how we live.  Amen.

Coffee at Cerro Verde, National Park, El Salvador.