Obedience Study, 3.5.09

When I think about obedience, I can't help but think of that kids' song... "O-b-e-d-i-e-n-c-e, obedience is the very best way to show that we believe." :)

Sorry, off track.

Here are some things that Danell has sent out ahead of time for us to think about for this coming Thursday. Remember, we are from 9:30 - 11:00 am at Westport. If you could get there a few minutes early to drop off your kiddos, that would be great! That way we can utilize all of our time in the study. See you Thursday!!

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Do you think of obedience as an action, or an attitude? Consider this definition given by Cynthia Heald:
“Obedience is submission, habitually yielding to authority.”

To get a jump start I wanted to encourage you to take some time over the next few days to see what God has to say about authority by answering the following questions:

1. What emotion/words/pictures come to mind when you hear the word “authority”?

2. What does the Bible have to say about authority? Look up “authority” and “authorities” in your concordance and begin noting what God says about authority. (Include context when necessary. ie: Are we talking about church, government, home?)

3. List Biblical authorities that God has put in place. (ie: government/civilian)

Keep in mind this week is about us: our attitude towards obedience and authority.
Thinker: Why do you think it is important as a parent, as someone who has been given authority, to have a right attitude about obedience and authority?
(Hint: consider Biblical and historical leaders who did not put themselves under authority or practice submission)

Suggested Memorization:

Romans 13:1-2
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.

Titus 3:1
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.

Ephesians 5:21
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.