In order to thrive, we must obey the principles of Christ. We will learn the meaning and power of simple obedience.
Proverbs 11:28
Those who trust in their riches will fall,
but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.
We are called to THRIVE
How can we thrive? (4 Ways)
1. Believe as we seek the presence of Christ
2. Depend on the power of Christ
3. Obey the principles of Christ
4. Enjoy the providence of Christ
We must obey the principles of Christ in order to thrive!
Principles of Christ? The way of life according to God's word
His way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him. (Psalm 18:30)
2 Tim 3:16-17
16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
1) We can trust God’s word to be true.
All Scripture is God-breathed
Psalm 119:160 The sum of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting.
II Samuel 7:28 Now, O Lord God, You are God, and Your words are truth, and You have promised this good thing to Your servant
John 17:17 Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.
2) We can trust God’s word to be profitable.
All Scripture is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness
a. teaching what is right (doctrine)
b. rebuking what is not right (reproof)
c. correcting how to get right (correction)
d. training how to stay right (instruction)
3) We can trust God’s word to be empowering.
so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
God's word empowers God's people to serve His kingdom via good works
OUR RESPONSE
Obedience is the proper response to the word of God because we trust in God’s word.
James 1:21-25
21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
1) Our obedience begins with humbly accepting God’s word.
21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
2) Our obedience requires ongoing action.
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
3) Our obedience results in receiving blessings.
25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
To Obey is Better Than Sacrifice