OBEDIENCE TO GOD ABOVE MAN
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 5:29
Key Verse: “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)
Supporting Texts: Daniel 3:16-18, 1 Samuel 15:22, John 14:15, Acts 4:19-20, Romans 12:1-2
INTRODUCTION:
Every believer is called to a life of obedience to God. True obedience is not selective; it means aligning our will with God’s will, no matter the cost. In Acts 5, the apostles boldly declared that they would rather obey God than bow to the threats of the religious leaders. They understood that divine instruction must always take precedence over human demands.
In a world where compromise is becoming acceptable, God is looking for men and women who will stand for truth regardless of opposition. Obedience is not just about following rules; it is an act of worship that proves our love for God and trust in His authority.
When believers choose to obey God even under pressure, heaven responds with power, protection, and promotion. Disobedience brings regret, but obedience brings reward. No matter the cost, obeying God always pays in the end.
1. OBEDIENCE TO GOD IS THE HIGHEST FORM OF WORSHIP
Obedience is not just compliance but a demonstration of our reverence and devotion to God.
a) Obedience Proves Our Love for God (John 14:15): Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” True love is shown through obedience.
b) God Values Obedience Above Sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22): Saul’s disobedience cost him his kingdom; God delights more in obedience than in offerings.
c) Obedience Invites God’s Presence (Exodus 19:5): Those who obey God’s voice become His treasured possession.
d) Obedience Produces Spiritual Authority (Luke 5:5-6): When Peter obeyed Jesus’ command, he caught a multitude of fish that astonished all who saw it.
Biblical Example: Abraham obeyed God by leaving his homeland and later by offering Isaac. His obedience brought generational blessings (Genesis 22:16-18).
2. OBEDIENCE TO GOD REQUIRES COURAGE IN THE FACE OF OPPOSITION
Standing for God’s truth often invites persecution, but true disciples remain steadfast.
a) The Fear of God Must Override the Fear of Man (Matthew 10:28): Fear the One who can destroy both soul and body, not those who can only harm the flesh.
b) Obedience May Bring Temporary Loss (Philippians 3:8): Paul counted all things as loss for the sake of obeying Christ.
c) Boldness is a Mark of the Spirit-Filled Life (Acts 4:19-20): Peter and John refused to be silenced because obedience to God was non-negotiable.
d) God Rewards Courageous Obedience (Joshua 1:7-9): God commands His people to be strong and courageous in keeping His word.
Biblical Example: The three Hebrew boys refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s image. Their obedience brought them divine protection and promotion (Daniel 3:16-30).
3. OBEDIENCE TO GOD ATTRACTS DIVINE FAVOUR AND PROMOTION
When we obey God, we position ourselves for supernatural breakthroughs and elevation.
a) Obedience Opens Doors of Blessings (Deuteronomy 28:1-2): If you diligently obey God, blessings will overtake you.
b) Obedience Brings Divine Direction (Isaiah 1:19): The obedient will eat the good of the land because God guides their steps.
c) Obedience Makes You a Vessel of Power (Acts 5:32): The Holy Spirit is given to those who obey Him.
d) Obedience Brings Peace and Prosperity (Job 36:11): If they obey and serve Him, they shall spend their days in prosperity and years in pleasures.
Biblical Example: Joseph obeyed God even in prison, and that obedience lifted him to the throne of Egypt (Genesis 41:38-41).
4. DISOBEDIENCE TO GOD BRINGS REGRET AND LOSS
When people choose to obey man rather than God, they suffer spiritual and physical consequences.
a) Disobedience Opens the Door to Failure (Deuteronomy 28:15): Those who reject God’s command fall under curses and hardship.
b) Disobedience Grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30): It breaks fellowship with God and robs the believer of divine guidance.
c) Disobedience Leads to Rejection (1 Samuel 15:26): Saul’s disobedience led to his downfall and loss of destiny.
d) Disobedience Delays God’s Promises (Numbers 14:22-23): Israel’s refusal to obey kept them wandering in the wilderness for forty years.
Biblical Example: Jonah’s disobedience led him into a storm and the belly of a fish until he repented and obeyed God’s call (Jonah 1:1-17).
CONCLUSION:
Obedience to God above man is the mark of a true disciple. When human laws or opinions conflict with divine instruction, the believer must choose to stand with God. His will is supreme and His word final. Those who obey Him never regret it because obedience releases divine power, direction, and blessings.
No matter what pressures or threats surround you, determine to obey God completely. Stand firm in your convictions, even if you stand alone. God honours those who honour Him, and He will defend and promote those who obey His voice.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me a heart that delights in obeying You above all else.
2. Holy Spirit, deliver me from the fear of man and give me holy boldness.
3. Father, help me to remain steadfast when obedience is costly.
4. Lord, expose and destroy every spirit of compromise in my life.
5. Give me grace to obey divine instructions promptly and completely.
6. Lord, empower me to stand for truth even when it’s unpopular.
7. Father, reward every act of obedience in my life with favour and promotion.
8. Lord, let my obedience inspire others to follow You faithfully.
9. Every delay caused by past disobedience, be reversed in Jesus’ name.
10. Lord, make me a vessel that honours You through total obedience.
