08/12/2024
"Obeying God in a Conflicted World: The Call to Prioritize Divine Authority"
Brothers and sisters in Christ,

In the heart of the Christian faith lies a profound understanding of obedience—an obedience that is not merely about following rules or traditions but is deeply rooted in a relationship with God. The phrase "We must obey God rather than men," found in Acts 5:29, echoes through the ages as a powerful proclamation of the priority of divine authority over human authority. This assertion, spoken by the apostles Peter and the other apostles in response to the Sanhedrin's commands to cease preaching the gospel, encapsulates the very essence of what it means to live as a follower of Christ in a world that often presents conflicting demands.
To comprehend the weight of this statement, we must first recognize the context in which it was spoken. The early church was birthed in a time of persecution and opposition. The apostles had witnessed the crucifixion of Jesus, and now they found themselves in a similar predicament, facing threats from the religious leaders who sought to silence their testimony about the resurrection and the transformative power of Jesus. Despite the pressure to conform to societal expectations and the fear of retribution, the apostles boldly declared their commitment to God’s mission. Their response serves as a clarion call for all believers throughout history to prioritize obedience to God above all earthly authorities.
Obedience to God is a theme that permeates the Scriptures, from the earliest accounts of humanity’s relationship with the Creator to the teachings of Jesus and the epistles of the apostles. It is woven into the fabric of the narrative of faith, where figures like Abraham, Moses, and the prophets exemplified lives marked by unwavering commitment to God's commands, often in the face of significant opposition. For instance, Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22) was not merely an act of obedience but a testament to his profound trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness. Similarly, Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, confronting Pharaoh with the command of God, declaring, “Let my people go” (Exodus 5:1). In both instances, their obedience was not born out of blind adherence to rules but from a deep relational understanding of who God is and what He desires for His people.
In our contemporary context, the call to obey God rather than men remains equally relevant and challenging. Society is often marked by shifting values and moral relativism, where the standards of right and wrong are dictated by popular opinion, political correctness, or cultural norms. As believers, we are frequently confronted with situations in which obeying God’s commands may put us at odds with societal expectations. This could manifest in various forms, such as standing firm in our convictions about marriage and sexuality, advocating for the sanctity of life, or speaking out against injustice and oppression. In such moments, the words of Acts 5:29 serve as a powerful reminder that our allegiance ultimately lies with God, who is the ultimate source of truth and righteousness.
The implications of this obedience extend beyond mere personal conviction; they challenge us to consider the broader impact of our actions on the world around us. When we choose to obey God rather than men, we become agents of His love and truth in a world in desperate need of both. Our obedience can inspire others to question the status quo and seek a deeper understanding of faith and morality. It opens the door for dialogue and invites others to encounter the transformative power of Jesus. As we live out our obedience, we reflect the light of Christ, drawing others towards Him, as Matthew 5:16 encourages, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Moreover, the call to obedience requires us to cultivate a posture of humility, recognizing that we do not have all the answers and that our understanding of God’s will is often limited. This humility leads us to seek God earnestly through prayer, Scripture, and the counsel of fellow believers. Acts of obedience are not always easy, and we may face internal struggles, doubt, and fear. However, the assurance that we serve a God who is sovereign and faithful can bolster our resolve. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This strength is not just for our personal endurance; it empowers us to act in ways that honor God, even when it is difficult.
In the face of opposition, it is crucial to remember that our obedience is ultimately for God’s glory and the advancement of His kingdom. The apostles in Acts 5 exemplify this, as they rejoiced in their suffering for the name of Jesus, viewing their trials as a privilege to bear witness to Him (Acts 5:41). Their commitment to obey God rather than men was not rooted in a desire for personal gain or recognition but in a profound understanding of their mission as followers of Christ. This perspective invites us to reflect on our motives for obedience. Are we seeking to please God or merely conforming to societal expectations? Are we willing to endure hardship for the sake of the gospel, trusting that our obedience will bear fruit in due time?
Ultimately, the call to obey God rather than men is a call to radical discipleship—a commitment to live in alignment with God’s will, even when it is countercultural. It requires courage, faith, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones. As we navigate a world filled with competing voices and values, let us hold fast to the truth that our obedience to God is not in vain. It is a testament to our relationship with Him, a declaration of our faith, and a powerful witness to a world in need of hope and redemption.
In conclusion, the words from Acts 5:29 remind us that obedience to God is not a burden but a privilege. It is an invitation to participate in His divine plan and to reflect His character in a world that desperately needs it. As we choose to obey God rather than men, we affirm our faith in His sovereignty, love, and justice. We become agents of change, living out the gospel in our actions and words, and drawing others to the hope found in Jesus Christ. May we boldly proclaim, like the apostles, that we must obey God rather than men, trusting in His guidance and provision as we walk in faith.
In his mighty name