When you think about obedience to God, what comes to mind? For some, it's a checklist of rules to earn God's favor. For others, it's a notion dismissed entirely because of grace. The truth lies in neither extreme. The Gospel of Jesus Christ reframes obedience, showing us that it is not about earning love but a natural response to being loved. Let's explore how this works.

Obedience: A Response, Not a Requirement

The Gospel’s message is simple yet profound: you don’t obey to earn God’s love; you obey because you are already loved. This truth distinguishes Christianity from religion. Religion says, “I obey; therefore, I am loved.” The Gospel says, “I am loved; therefore, I obey.”

Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross liberated us from sin's punishment, making obedience not a burden but a joyful response. Romans 8:1-2 reminds us, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” That liberation isn’t just a theological concept; it’s a life-changing reality that transforms how we live.

Two Sides of Misunderstanding the Gospel

Misunderstanding the Gospel often leads to two extremes:

1. Legalism: The belief that you must earn God’s approval through good deeds.
2. License: The idea that grace permits you to live however you want.

Both are pitfalls. Legalism creates fear and striving, while license cheapens grace and ignores the transformation God desires in us. True Gospel-centered living strikes a balance, where obedience stems from trust in God’s faithfulness.

Obedience Flows from Trust

Why does the Gospel produce obedience? The answer is trust. Scripture shows us over and over that God is faithful. Even if our personal experiences challenge this truth, the Bible provides ample evidence that God keeps His promises. When you trust someone completely, following their lead becomes a natural response.

This is what the early Christians understood. They knew Jesus would never mislead them. Their obedience wasn’t begrudging; it was joyful and trusting. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Love and obedience are intertwined because love builds trust, and trust compels action.

The Beauty of Grace in Relationships

Think about marriage. It’s one of the clearest earthly examples of the Gospel’s dynamic. In a healthy marriage, both spouses commit to laying down their lives for one another. It’s not because they’re perfect but because of love and grace.

Imagine saying, “Since my spouse loves me unconditionally, I can do whatever I want.” That attitude would destroy the relationship. Similarly, abusing God’s grace leads to a fractured relationship with Him. Instead, a deep appreciation of grace fosters joyful commitment and mutual love.

Living by the Spirit, Not the Flesh

The Gospel calls us to leave behind the flesh—a life driven by selfish desires—and embrace the Spirit. Paul’s teaching in Romans 8 contrasts these two ways of living. When the Gospel grips your heart, obedience isn’t about following rules; it’s about allowing God’s promises to reshape you from the inside out.

This transformation isn’t instant. It requires daily reminders of who Jesus is and what He has done. As the Holy Spirit works in you, obedience becomes a natural outflow of your new identity in Christ.

The Gospel Changes Everything

At its core, the Gospel changes your status before God and your daily life. Jesus’ work on the cross doesn’t just save you from punishment; it gives you a new purpose. Salvation is both a gift and a call to live as an obedient follower of Christ.

Marriage, again, serves as an example. Your spouse sees your worst traits and loves you anyway. That kind of grace inspires you to grow and love them better. In the same way, God’s grace doesn’t free us to abuse His love; it frees us to respond with gratitude and trust.

Conclusion: A Joyful Invitation

The Gospel invites you to live differently. Obedience is not a grudging duty; it’s a joyful response to God’s overwhelming love and faithfulness. Trust Him, and let that trust shape your actions.

When you embrace the Gospel, you’re no longer a slave to sin but a joyful participant in God’s mission. Obedience becomes less about following rules and more about aligning your life with the One who loves you perfectly.

So, what will you do with this truth? Will you let it transform you? Jesus calls you to trust Him and follow joyfully. Are you ready to take that step?

For the Good of The City,

Derek Dunn

This post is based on a portion of a recent sermon. To listen to the full sermon, click the button below.