Is Obedience Legalism

Thesis: Obedience is a word confused by many, if not most Christians, from conservative believers to those that are liberal. How do we practice true, biblical obedience in light of living the Gospel?

Paul dealing with practical aspects of Church life.

1. MOTIVATION OF OBEDIENCE

   • "by the mercies of God"

2. MEANING OF OBEDIENCE

   • "present your body as a living sacrifice"
   • not segmented - its "all in" life

3. MINDSET OF OBEDIENCE

   • "your intelligent worship of service"
   • gospel understanding logically leads to
     giving entire body to service.
     • Jesus came to serve and give life

4. METHOD OF OBEDIENCE

   • "dont conform, but be transformed by mind"
   • dont approach service with worldly approach
   • we end up being what we think - be eternal
   • Let scripture mold you, not world

CONCLUSION: Doctrine fleshes out practice. The true Gospel of Grace will lead to the right practice of obedience. Born from a difference in conceptualizing and embracing the gospel. True obedience born not from legalism, but from devotion to the Savior as expressed by Paul in Romans 12:1-2!