The great obligation

In almost every known culture and civilization there is an unspoken understanding that comes with a gift, a reciprocity that, in effect, says this: “Because I have done this for you, you have an obligation to return the favor by doing something for me.” In some cultures there are very clear expectations that need to be followed.

As a Christian, what’s your obligation to God in response to what He has done for you? If you had asked Paul this question, I think he would have answered and said something like this: No, you cannot repay God for what He’s done, but you do have an obligation. Here it is: “I’m earnestly contending with you brothers because of God’s mercies that you give your bodies as a living sacrifice. I want them to be holy and acceptable to God. That’s only your reasonable response to what He’s done for you. And stop allowing the world to force you into its mold and thinking, but be continually transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you may experience and prove what is God’s will, which is good, acceptable and complete.” You will find the essence of what I’ve just said in the 12th chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans.

To the Corinthians he wrote, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

As His child you have an obligation to live the same way – not to be worthy of what God has done, not to attempt to pay Him back for the pain and trouble you have caused, but to acknowledge you are His and He is your father.

Used with permission from Guidelines International Ministries. To learn more about Guidelines and the ministry, send an e-mail to info@guidelines.org. You may also visit www.guidelines.org.