80 - Rita – “Erasing Obedience: From the Great Commission to the Great Omission”
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Erasing Obedience: From the Great Commission to the Great Omission
Have you understood that the Great Commission was never to go and make mouth professing “believers”, but heart possessing “disciples”? Have you seen that Jesus commanded we were to be taught to obey all that He commanded? The modern false church system has totally erased the second half of the Great Commission, so that now we should call it, the Great Omission.
Irrespective of false teaching, there is no such thing in the Bible, as a “believer” who doesn’t have to become a disciple, to gain eternal life. In John 8:31-36, Jesus offered a profound insight into the heart of true discipleship.
Many Jews believed in Jesus after hearing His teachings. Yet, Jesus challenged them, saying, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32). True discipleship, Jesus insists, hinges on obedience. It's not enough to merely acknowledge Him intellectually or emotionally; we must actively live out His teachings, as our living Lord and Master.
This truth is echoed in Luke 6:46, where Jesus asks, "Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?". He confronts the discrepancy between outward profession and inward transformation. We are called to the obedience that comes by faith (Rom 1:5). True faith manifests itself in a life of obedience, reflecting the very life and character of Christ.
But what is the motivation for such obedience? It's not about earning God's favor, but the obligation we have in the face of His glorious mercy and love. In John 14:21-23, Jesus promises, "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him". Obedience is not a burden where there is great love for God. It becomes a pathway to intimacy with Him. It is through diligently seeking Him, as Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes, that we truly find Him.
As you walk your faith journey, remember that true discipleship is not about religious rituals or outward appearances. It's about a heart transformed by obedience, a life surrendered to Christ, and a relentless pursuit of hearing and doing God's will. Embrace this truth, and you will experience the abundant life Jesus promised.
