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The Pursuit of Holiness

By on February 12, 2026 in Theology

Having completed The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges, the book presents biblically grounded principles showing that Christians pursue holiness only because they are already united to Christ and strengthened by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Bridges makes clear that God does not command holiness and then abandon His people to self-effort; rather, Christ shares His resurrected life with believers, and the Spirit abides in them, granting power, guidance, and rightly ordered desires for obedience. Because of this union, Christians are called to fight sin and practice obedience—not to earn salvation, but because they have been transferred into a new kingdom and now live under Christ’s lordship. Holiness, then, is a life of humble dependence upon God’s active grace: trusting Christ, submitting to the Spirit, and choosing obedience even when it is costly. Bridges teaches that growth in holiness requires real effort, but it is achieved through continual dependence on the Spirit and through conscious, persistent personal obedience rather than self-confidence.

Introduction

The Pursuit of Holiness is written under the weight of a simple reality: God is holy, and those who belong to Him do not remain unchanged. Jerry Bridges begins with God Himself—His holiness, His rule, His claim upon His people—and places the reader beneath that claim. Holiness is not presented as a special calling for the few, but as the proper life of those who have been brought into Christ’s kingdom. The book moves steadily from who God is to what life before Him must become, keeping grace primary and obedience necessary, never allowing one to be set against the other.

As the book progresses, attention turns to the long obedience of ordinary days: resisting sin, cultivating discipline, and continuing in faith when progress is slow and costly. Bridges writes with clear-eyed realism about the struggle, yet without despair, insisting that effort belongs to the Christian life precisely because the Spirit is present and active. Holiness is shown as a walk of repentance, dependence, and persistent obedience in a world that remains resistant to God.

Review

In The Pursuit of Holiness, Jerry Bridges sets in place a steady and clear appeal that holiness is neither optional for the believer nor achievable by unaided human effort. The book moves in clear sequence, first setting God’s holiness before the reader, then pressing the believer toward obedience: God is holy, and those who belong to Him are called to reflect His character through obedient lives empowered by the Holy Spirit. Bridges does not treat holiness as advanced spirituality for the mature few. He grounds it in the plain command of Scripture: “Pursue peace with all men, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). The call is universal, binding, and rooted in the character of God Himself.

The Holiness of God as Foundation

Drawing attention to passages such as Isaiah 6:1–5, where the prophet is undone before the overwhelmingly holy Lord, Bridges establishes that holiness is first an attribute of God before it is a requirement for man. The summons of 1 Peter 1:15–16—“Be holy, for I am holy,” echoing Leviticus 11:44—links the believer’s conduct directly to the moral purity of God. Holiness is not cultural separation nor religious severity. It is moral likeness to God’s character. Because God is holy in all His works, those who bear His name must not treat sin lightly.

Bridges emphasizes that this foundation protects holiness from distortion. If holiness begins with human resolve, it becomes legalism. If it is detached from God’s character, it becomes vague spirituality. It must be anchored in who God is.

Holiness Is Not Optional

From that foundation, Bridges confronts the modern tendency to treat holiness as secondary. He points again to Hebrews 12:14 and to 2 Corinthians 7:1, which calls believers to “cleanse ourselves from all defilement of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Holiness is commanded. It is not an enhancement to the Christian life but its necessary fruit.

At the same time, Bridges is careful to root obedience in grace. The command to pursue holiness is addressed to those already redeemed. He consistently resists any suggestion that effort earns acceptance. The order remains clear: justification first, then sanctification.

The Holiness of Christ

Bridges moves from the holiness of God to the holiness of Christ. The believer’s pattern is not abstract morality but the incarnate Son. Christ’s perfect obedience provides both the ground of acceptance and the example to follow. Yet Bridges’ argument does not rest in imitation alone. He turns decisively to union with Christ and the believer’s new position.

Romans 6:6–14 forms a structural center. Believers have died with Christ; they have been raised with Him; sin is no longer their master. The imperative to “consider yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Romans 6:11) rests on an accomplished reality. Colossians 1:13 speaks of transfer into “the kingdom of His beloved Son.” The Christian life begins with a change of dominion. Holiness flows from this transfer. The believer does not fight for entry into the kingdom but because he already belongs to it.

The Battle for Holiness

With identity established, Bridges addresses the daily conflict. Galatians 5:17 describes the flesh and the Spirit set against one another. 1 Peter 2:11 warns that sinful desires wage war against the soul. Holiness, therefore, is not passive. It requires vigilance.

Bridges distinguishes between seeking “victory” as an emotional experience and practicing obedience as a deliberate choice. He emphasizes that Scripture calls believers to obedience, not to a constant feeling of triumph. This correction guards against discouragement. The measure is not intensity but faithfulness.

Romans 8:13 states plainly: “If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” Colossians 3:5 commands, “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you.” Mortification is active. The language of warfare is explicit. Sin is not tolerated.

Help in the Daily Battle

Though the struggle is real, Bridges repeatedly anchors effort in dependence. Galatians 5:16—“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh”—links obedience to the Spirit’s enabling power. Romans 8 does not merely command resistance; it promises the Spirit’s presence.

John 15:4–5 provides the pattern of abiding. Without Christ, nothing can be accomplished; in Him, fruit is borne. This balance prevents holiness from becoming self-reliance. The Spirit is not an optional assistant but the agent of transformation.

Personal Discipline and Habit

Bridges then offers the principle of structured effort. 1 Timothy 4:7 calls believers to discipline themselves for godliness. Hebrews 12:10–11 shows that discipline yields “the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” Holiness grows where deliberate practices replace negligence.

He addresses practical areas: bodily purity (1 Corinthians 6:18–20), renewal of the mind (Romans 12:1–2), guarding desire (James 1:14–15). Habits either reinforce sin or cultivate obedience. The Christian must make conscious choices concerning environment, thoughts, speech, and conduct.

Philippians 2:12–13 offers the balance: “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you.” Effort is required because God is at work. Divine operation does not cancel human responsibility; it grounds it.

Holiness in Body and Spirit

Bridges expands holiness beyond visible conduct. 2 Corinthians 7:1 speaks of cleansing “body and spirit.” External morality without inward transformation is insufficient. The will, the desires, the inner disposition must align with God.

Yet the body is not neglected. Scripture links sanctification to concrete behavior: fleeing immorality (2 Timothy 2:22), controlling the tongue (James 3), resisting conformity to the world (Romans 12:2). Holiness encompasses thought, motive, and action.

Faith in the Pursuit of Holiness

Toward the latter chapters, Bridges makes explicit that faith remains central. Holiness does not advance through anxiety but through trust in God’s promises. Romans 14:23 warns that whatever is not from faith is sin. The pursuit of obedience is sustained through confidence in God’s character and promises.

Dependence on the Spirit is not vague feeling but active reliance upon what God has said. Scripture, prayer, and obedience function together. The believer trusts, acts, repents, and continues.

Holiness in an Unholy World

Bridges acknowledges external resistance. Romans 12:2 commands nonconformity to the world. 1 John 2:15–17 warns against love for the world’s desires. The Christian remains situated within society but lives according to different priorities. Holiness creates distinction without withdrawal.

The world’s standards shift; God’s character does not. Persistent obedience in such a context requires conviction grounded in revelation.

The Joy of Holiness

The book does not conclude in strain. Psalm 16:11 speaks of fullness of joy in God’s presence. Hebrews 12:11 promises peaceable fruit following discipline. Bridges argues that obedience yields stability and peace. Joy is not emotional excess but settled alignment with God’s will.

Holiness leads not to deprivation but to freedom. Sin enslaves; obedience liberates. Romans 6 presents this contrast clearly: slavery to sin results in death; slavery to righteousness leads to sanctification and life.

Balance and Endurance

Throughout the book, Bridges maintains several essential tensions:

  • Holiness is commanded (Hebrews 12:14) yet enabled by the Spirit (Romans 8:13).
  • Effort is required (1 Timothy 4:7) yet grounded in God’s prior work (Philippians 2:13).
  • The believer has died to sin (Romans 6:6) yet must still put sin to death (Colossians 3:5).
  • The Christian lives in the world yet must resist conformity (Romans 12:2).

These tensions are not resolved by dissolving one side. They are held together under the authority of Scripture. So The Pursuit of Holiness endures because it refuses two errors: passivity that hides behind grace, and legalism that trusts discipline. Its thesis remains clear: growth in holiness requires real effort, but only as it is carried out in continual dependence on the Spirit through conscious and persistent personal obedience rather than self-confidence.

The book presents a clear and orderly treatment of biblical sanctification, grounded in Scripture throughout. It begins with the holiness of God, then moves to the believer’s union with Christ and the new life that follows. From there, it addresses the continuing struggle with sin and the need for disciplined obedience carried out in dependence on the Spirit. It concludes by showing that a life aligned with God’s will leads not to strain, but to steady and lasting joy.

Conclusion

Throughout the book, Bridges returns again and again to the necessity of abiding in Scripture. Holiness is not sustained by impulse or resolve alone, but by a mind continually renewed according to the Word (Romans 12:2). The Scriptures expose what lies hidden in the heart (Hebrews 4:12), preserve the way from corruption (Psalm 119:9–11), and supply promises sufficient for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3–4). They are not treated as occasional counsel, but as daily bread. In this light, the pursuit of holiness stands upon God’s ongoing work: He has united His people to Christ (Romans 6:4–11), given them His Spirit (Romans 8:9–13), and set His Word before them as light for the path. What follows is obedience formed under that light—steady, deliberate, and dependent upon the One who first acted.

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The Imitation of Christ

By on December 1, 2025 in Theology

Today, I completed a 419-page version of The Imitation of Christ. A book from centuries ago translated from Latin to English by Aloysius Croft and Harold Bolton (published in 2014). It was a period of reading and contemplation that took several months. Due to its length and subject matter, but as I drew near the end of the book it was apparent that it is necessary to read more than once. It became clear why many people have read it frequently and often over several hundred years. It also serves as a devotional companion, especially among Roman Catholic believers devoted to Christ and His teachings. This short-written post offers some edited thoughts about the book and its subject matter, but it will be necessary to read it again as it is meant for deeper contemplation and application.

Introduction

ISBN: 13-978-1494975258

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis is one of the most influential Christian books ever written, guiding readers on how to live a life that closely follows the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. Written in the early 15th century, this book is a simple yet profound manual on deepening one’s spiritual life. It’s divided into four main books, each focusing on different aspects of Christian living, like how to be humble, resist temptation, and find peace in God. Thomas à Kempis wrote this book intending to help people grow closer to God by imitating Christ daily.

The book emphasizes the importance of inner transformation over external actions. Thomas à Kempis teaches that true peace and happiness come from within by aligning our thoughts and desires with God’s will. He encourages readers to practice humility, patience, and obedience, showing how these virtues can help us live Christ-like lives. The book also offers practical advice on dealing with challenges and temptations, reminding us that we can overcome life’s difficulties by focusing on Christ and trusting in God’s guidance.

The Imitation of Christ has inspired countless people throughout the centuries, including many saints and spiritual leaders. Its teachings are timeless, offering valuable lessons for anyone seeking to grow in their faith. Even today, the book remains a powerful tool for spiritual development, helping readers to reflect on their lives and strive to live more like Jesus. Thomas à Kempis’s message is clear: by imitating Christ in our thoughts, words, and actions, we can find true meaning and fulfillment in life.

Author – Thomas à Kempis

Thomas à Kempis was a German monk and writer born around 1380 in Kempen, near Cologne. He is best known for writing The Imitation of Christ, one of the most influential Christian books ever written. Thomas joined a religious community called the Brethren of the Common Life, a group dedicated to living simply and focusing on spiritual growth. He later became a monk in the monastery of Mount St. Agnes in the Netherlands, where he spent most of his life. Thomas devoted himself to prayer, copying religious texts, and guiding others in their spiritual lives.

Thomas à Kempis was known throughout his life for his deep humility, devotion to God, and quiet, reflective nature. He wasn’t famous during his lifetime, but his writings, especially The Imitation of Christ, have moved Christians worldwide. Thomas’s work continues to inspire people to live more spiritually focused lives, emphasizing the importance of inner peace, humility, and following Jesus’s example. He died in 1471, but his teachings remain a timeless guide for those seeking to deepen their relationship with God.

Admonitions for Humility

The first book emphasizes the importance of humility and simplicity. Thomas à Kempis encourages readers to live modestly, avoid worldly distractions, and focus on God. He teaches that true wisdom and peace come not from seeking knowledge for its own sake but from living a life that reflects Christ’s teachings. By practicing humility—recognizing our own limitations and being open to learning from others—we can develop a deeper relationship with God and find contentment in our spiritual journey.

Concerning the Interior Life

In the second book, Thomas à Kempis discusses the importance of cultivating a strong inner life. He emphasizes self-reflection, meditation, and prayer as essential practices for spiritual growth. The author also highlights the value of humility, patience, and contentment, urging readers to find joy in God rather than in worldly achievements. This book teaches that by focusing on our inner relationship with God, we can build a foundation of peace and strength that will carry us through life’s challenges.

Of Internal Consolations

The third book addresses the difficulties and trials that are part of life. Thomas à Kempis encourages readers to seek comfort in God during tough times and to view suffering as an opportunity for spiritual growth. He teaches that hardships can deepen our faith if we bear them with patience and trust in God’s plan. The author reassures readers that God is always present, offering strength and guidance and that perseverance through trials will lead to greater spiritual maturity and closeness to Christ.

The Blessed Sacrament

The final book focuses on the Eucharist. Thomas à Kempis explains the profound spiritual significance of the Eucharist as a means of uniting with Christ and receiving His grace. He urges readers to approach the sacrament with reverence, humility, and a pure heart. Regular participation in the Eucharist is presented as a vital practice for growing in holiness and deepening one’s relationship with Christ, serving as a source of spiritual nourishment and strength.

Conclusion

The Imitation of Christ is a timeless work that offers practical and spiritual guidance for Christians seeking to live a life more aligned with the teachings of Jesus. Through its emphasis on humility, inner peace, perseverance in trials, and the significance of the Eucharist, Thomas à Kempis provides a comprehensive roadmap for spiritual growth. The book’s teachings continue to inspire and challenge readers to deepen their faith, live simply and humbly, and seek a closer relationship with God in all aspects of their lives.

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The Imperatives of Christ

By on August 29, 2024 in Theology

The will of the Father and the will of the Son. Keeping the commands of Jesus begins with recognizing what they are. The following outline is a collection of Jesus’ imperatives. As you read through them, ask God to help you observe these words, apply them, and faithfully follow them throughout your life.

“Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.” – Romans 11:22

The Specific Imperatives

These imperatives are from the New Testament, and they are the specific instructions, commands, and imperatives that Jesus spoke to His followers.

NumberCommand of ChristVerse (ESV)Reference
1Repent"From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."Matthew 4:17
2Let not your heart be troubled“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"John 14:27,
John 16:33, Matthew 6:25-26, Philippians 4:6-7
3Follow Me"And he said to them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19
4Rejoice“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. ‎Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. "Matthew 5:11–12
5Let Your Light Shine"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. "Matthew 5:16
6Honor God’s Law“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. "Matthew 5:17
7Be Reconciled"So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. "Matthew 5:23–25
8Do Not Lust"But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. ‎And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell. "Matthew 5:28–30
9Keep Your Word"Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil."Matthew 5:37
10Go the Second Mile "You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. ‎And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you. "Matthew 5:38–42
11Love Your Enemies"But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ‎so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ‎For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? "Matthew 5:44–46
12Be Perfect"For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? ‎And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? ‎You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."Matthew 5:46–48
13Practice Secret Disciplines “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven."Matthew 6:1
14Lay up treasures in heaven“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, ‎but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. ‎For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. "Matthew 6:19–20
15Seek first the kingdom of God"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."Matthew 6:33
16Judge not“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. "Matthew 7:1-2
17Do not throw your pearls to pigs“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. "Matthew 7:6
18Ask, seek, and knock“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. "Matthew 7:7-8
19Do unto others“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."Matthew 7:12
20Choose the narrow way“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. "Matthew 7:13-14
21Beware of false prophets"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. "Matthew 7:15
22Pray for those who spread the word"Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:37-38
23Be as shrewd as serpents“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. "Matthew 10:16, Romans 16:19
24Fear God. Do not fear man"And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell."Matthew 10:28, Luke 12:4-5
25Listen to God’s voice"He who has ears to hear, let him hear."Matthew 11:15, 13:9,
13:43, Mark 4:23, Luke 14:35, 1 Kings 19:11-13
26Take my yoke"Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ‎For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29-30
27Honor your parents"For God commanded, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ "Matthew 15:4
28Beware of false teaching"How is it that you fail to understand that I did not speak about bread? Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” ‎Then they understood that he did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. "Matthew 16:6, Matthew 16:11-12
29Deny yourself"And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. "Luke 9:23, Matthew 10:38, Mark 8:34
30Do not despise little ones“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. "Matthew 18:10
31Go to Christians who offend you“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. "Matthew 18:15, Galatians 6:1
32Forgive offenders"Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” ‎Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times."Matthew 18:21-22, Proverbs 19:11
33Beware of covetousness"And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Luke 12:15
34Honor marriage"So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” Matthew 19:6, Matthew 19:9
35Lead by being a servant"It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, ‎and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:26-28
36Make the church a house of prayer for all nations"And he was teaching them and saying to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.” Mark 11:17
37Pray in faith"And Jesus answered them, “Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ it will happen. ‎And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”Matthew 21:21-22, John 15:7
38Bring in the poor"He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.” Luke 14:12-14
39Render unto Caesar"Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. ‎And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” Matthew 22:19-21
40Love the Lord"And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment"Matthew 22:37-38
41Love your neighbor"And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. "Matthew 22:39
42Be born again"Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’"John 3:7
43Await my return"Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. "Matthew 24:42-44
44Celebrate the Lord’s supper"Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” ‎And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, "Matthew 26:26-27
45Watch and pray"Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41
46Keep my commandments"If you love me, you will keep my commandments. "John 14:15
47Feed my sheep"When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” John 21:15-16
48Make and baptize disciples"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, "Matthew 28:19
49Teach disciples to obey"teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20
50Receive God’s power"And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Luke 24:49

Partial Obedience is Still Disobedience

To further stress the necessity of obedience, the account of God rejecting Saul for his disobedience is found primarily in 1 Samuel 15:1-35. This chapter narrates the specific event where King Saul disobeys God’s command, leading to his rejection.

Command to Saul:

  • 1 Samuel 15:1-3: Samuel, the prophet, conveys God’s command to Saul to utterly destroy the Amalekites, including their king, livestock, and all their possessions: “Thus says the LORD of hosts, ‘I will punish Amalek for what he did to Israel, how he set himself against him on the way while he was coming up from Egypt. Now go and strike Amalek and utterly destroy all that he has, and do not spare him; but put to death both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel, and donkey.’”

Saul’s Disobedience:

  • 1 Samuel 15:9: Saul does not fully obey the command. Instead of destroying everything as God instructed, he spares Agag, the king of the Amalekites, and keeps the best of the livestock: “But Saul and the people spared Agag and the best of the sheep, the oxen, the fatlings, the lambs, and all that was good, and were not willing to destroy them utterly; but everything despised and worthless, that they utterly destroyed.”

God’s Regret and Rejection of Saul:

  • 1 Samuel 15:10-11: God expresses His regret for making Saul king because of his disobedience: “Then the word of the LORD came to Samuel, saying, ‘I regret that I have made Saul king, for he has turned back from following Me and has not carried out My commands.’ And Samuel was distressed and cried out to the LORD all night.”
  • 1 Samuel 15:22-23: Samuel confronts Saul, emphasizing that obedience to God’s word is more important than sacrifice: “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has also rejected you from being king.”

Final Pronouncement of Rejection:

  • 1 Samuel 15:26-28: Despite Saul’s attempt to justify his actions and seek forgiveness, Samuel makes it clear that God has permanently rejected him as king: “But Samuel said to Saul, ‘I will not return with you; for you have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you from being king over Israel.’ As Samuel turned to go, Saul seized the edge of his robe, and it tore. So Samuel said to him, ‘The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to your neighbor, who is better than you.’”

    This passage encapsulates Saul’s failure to carry out God’s explicit command and marks a turning point in his kingship. It highlights the seriousness with which God regards obedience and ultimately leads to the rise of David, who is described as “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). Saul’s rejection emphasizes that partial obedience is still disobedience in God’s view.

    HOECKE, Jan van den David Playing the Harp for King Saul, 1630-35 Oil on panel, 58 x 80 cm Szépmûvészeti Múzeum, Budapest

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    The Source of Eternal Salvation

    By on April 13, 2023 in Theology

    There are various opinions and views about what it means to attain eternal salvation. And I am inclined to consult commentaries, Greek Lexicons, and other intertextual references about the meaning of the Hebrews 5:9 passage. However, the plain intended meaning from the author of the Hebrews is clear. While Christ Jesus’ redemptive work was salvific for those who believe by faith through grace, it is impossible to live a life of disobedience and attain eternal salvation. Salvation is not earned by works as commonly understood from Scripture (Eph 2:8-9), but a person who lives by authentic faith would obey. And the fruits of the Spirit in the life of a person who believes and lives by faith in Christ would demonstrate the willingness and intention to obey.

    Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.

    – Hebrews 5:9

    To bear fruit of righteousness, the first place to begin is the ten commandments. Obey those as an expression of a living faith because Christ is the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.

    The Ten Commandments

    NumberVerse (ESV)Reference
    1“You shall have no other gods before me.”Exodus 20:3
    2“You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.”Exodus 20:4
    3“You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.”Exodus 20:7
    4“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore, the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.”Exodus 20:8-11
    5“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.”Exodus 20:12
    6“You shall not murder.”Exodus 20:13
    7“You shall not commit adultery.”Exodus 20:14
    8“You shall not steal.”Exodus 20:15
    9“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.”Exodus 20:16
    10“You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor’s.”Exodus 20:17


    The Imperatives of Christ

    NumberImperativeVerse (ESV)Reference
    1Repent“From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”Matthew 4:17
    2Let not your heart be troubled“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”John 14:27,
    John 16:33, Matthew 6:25-26, Philippians 4:6-7
    3Follow Me“And he said to them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”Matthew 4:19
    4Rejoice“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. ‎Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. “Matthew 5:11–12
    5Let Your Light Shine“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. “Matthew 5:16
    6Honor God’s Law“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. “Matthew 5:17
    7Be Reconciled“So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. “Matthew 5:23–25
    8Do Not Lust“But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. ‎And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell. “Matthew 5:28–30
    9Keep Your Word“Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.”Matthew 5:37
    10Go the Second Mile“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. ‎And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you. “Matthew 5:38–42
    11Love Your Enemies“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ‎so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ‎For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? “Matthew 5:44–46
    12Be Perfect“For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? ‎And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? ‎You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”Matthew 5:46–48
    13Practice Secret Disciplines“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.”Matthew 6:1
    14Lay up treasures in heaven“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, ‎but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. ‎For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. “Matthew 6:19–20
    15Seek first the kingdom of God“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”Matthew 6:33
    16Judge not“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. “Matthew 7:1-2
    17Do not throw your pearls to pigs“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. “Matthew 7:6
    18Ask, seek, and knock“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. “Matthew 7:7-8
    19Do unto others“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”Matthew 7:12
    20Choose the narrow way“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. “Matthew 7:13-14
    21Beware of false prophets“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. “Matthew 7:15
    22Pray for those who spread the word“Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”Matthew 9:37-38
    23Be as shrewd as serpents“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. “Matthew 10:16, Romans 16:19
    24Fear God. Do not fear man“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”Matthew 10:28, Luke 12:4-5
    25Listen to God’s voice“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”Matthew 11:15, 13:9,
    13:43, Mark 4:23, Luke 14:35, 1 Kings 19:11-13
    26Take my yoke“Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ‎For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”Matthew 11:29-30
    27Honor your parents“For God commanded, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ “Matthew 15:4
    28Beware of false teaching“How is it that you fail to understand that I did not speak about bread? Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” ‎Then they understood that he did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. “Matthew 16:6, Matthew 16:11-12
    29Deny yourself“And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. “Luke 9:23, Matthew 10:38, Mark 8:34
    30Do not despise little ones“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. “Matthew 18:10
    31Go to Christians who offend you“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. “Matthew 18:15, Galatians 6:1
    32Forgive offenders“Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” ‎Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.”Matthew 18:21-22, Proverbs 19:11
    33Beware of covetousness“And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”Luke 12:15
    34Honor marriage“So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”Matthew 19:6, Matthew 19:9
    35Lead by being a servant“It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, ‎and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”Matthew 20:26-28
    36Make the church a house of prayer for all nations“And he was teaching them and saying to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.”Mark 11:17
    37Pray in faith“And Jesus answered them, “Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ it will happen. ‎And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”Matthew 21:21-22, John 15:7
    38Bring in the poor“He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”Luke 14:12-14
    39Render unto Caesar“Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. ‎And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”Matthew 22:19-21
    40Love the Lord“And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment”Matthew 22:37-38
    41Love your neighbor“And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. “Matthew 22:39
    42Be born again“Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’”John 3:7
    43Await my return“Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. “Matthew 24:42-44
    44Celebrate the Lord’s supper“Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” ‎And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, “Matthew 26:26-27
    45Watch and pray“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”Matthew 26:41
    46Keep my commandments“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. “John 14:15
    47Feed my sheep“When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.”John 21:15-16
    48Make and baptize disciples“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, “Matthew 28:19
    49Teach disciples to obey“teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”Matthew 28:20
    50Receive God’s power“And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”Luke 24:49
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    Altar of the Destitute

    By on August 13, 2020 in Theology

    “With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?” He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” – Micah 6:6-8 ESV

    The message of Micah concerns the historical people of Israel, but also in theological principle any person today who claims YHWH is God and seeks to understand what He requires (Micah 6:6-8). Rhetorically, the prophet Micah asked a few pointed questions concerning religious practices or offerings of sacrifices and good works. To use hyperbolic language, he exaggerates types of premium offerings given in abundance before YHWH to win His favor. That by doing so, Micah writes of the absurdity of such efforts as if God would somehow see past their asceticism and injustices. So as to continue in their rejection of the covenant, they were obligated to keep. While sacrificial offerings were standard practice at the temple in Jerusalem, it was an attempt to keep tradition before YHWH despite their heart condition before Him.

    From the spirit of the covenant summed up in the pericope involving the Shema (Mark 12:29-34), we are given a clear view of its intent, and it all comes around to love. Active love for YHWH and people bring about the fulfillment of what God requires. Namely, a love fulfilled through justice (miš•pāṭ’), lovingkindness (ḥĕ’•sĕḏ), and humility (ṣn c) as these were the virtues or fruit, that identified those who seek to honor and obey YHWH.

    As we listen carefully to what Jesus said to the religious authorities in Jerusalem, He called them hypocrites by echoing what Isaiah prophesied concerning their hearts (Matt 15:7-9). Religious people who honor YHWH with their lips, their pen, or their pixelated words typed on a device while yet having their heart far from Him are they who worship or serve Him in vain. As it is a form of worship that involves teaching the doctrines the commandments of men (Col 2:22, Titus 1:14). Jesus was very clear in this message. Our heart’s desire for God and each other is that we would fulfill as a reciprocal obligation of love made by action and not just by what is instead going through the motions as an expression of personal self-interest.

    The specific manner in which we demonstrate love appears from the reminder of Micah himself. Reiterated from the Mosaic covenant and prophet Isaiah (Deut 30:15, Deut 10:12, Is 56:1, Is 57:15, Is 66:2, Jer 22:3, Hos 6:6). While people have a high propensity toward veering away from God their creator or outright rejecting Him to live out disloyal lives, any effort to mask their sin or error through religious practices is ineffective and only worsens matters. As YHWH knows the heart and our thoughts and intentions, we can apply what we understand from His word through Micah. About what we should do to live in a way that pleases Him, according to the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23) and the Shema by what we read through the words of Christ (Mark 12:29-34).

    As we have the opportunity, and in daily life, we are better situated at peace before God and others when we humble ourselves and demonstrate consistent love for Him and others. At the same time, we speak and act justly among people. Yet only a principled justice guided by Scripture to keep from neglecting others, abusing people, or causing undue harm. If authentic Christians today were to practice what Micah wrote about, their efforts would lead to a pleasing lifestyle that honors God and His desires for us within the new covenant.

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    Point of No Return

    By on October 24, 2017 in Theology

    “See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.

    If you obey the commandments of the LORD your God that I command you today, by loving the LORD your God, by walking in his ways, and by keeping his commandments and his statutes and his rules, then you shall live and multiply, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to take possession of it. But if your heart turns away, and you will not hear, but are drawn away to worship other gods and serve them, I declare to you today, that you shall surely perish. You shall not live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to enter and possess.

    I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the LORD your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days, that you may dwell in the land that the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.”

    The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Dt 30:15–20). 

    Set before you is life and good, death and evil.
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    In the Light

    By on November 12, 2015 in Theology

    “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” – 1 John 1:5-10

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