Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:29
Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, which should be required reading for all Christians, is filled with stories of those faithful Christians who paid with their life’s blood for their agreement with today’s text. Most of the apostles also eventually paid with their lives. Even today, faithful saints in Moslem, communist, and Hindu countries are dying daily by the thousands as the opponents of Christ and His Gospel continue their futile efforts to extinguish the light. They cannot succeed, because the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ is the most powerful force ever unleashed on this planet. Those who have died to endorse today’s text have gained far more than they could ever lose by doing so. The same holds true for us today.
Christians who place a higher priority on obeying God than obeying man are sometimes called to the test. The test can often be severe, although in our western world it is seldom more than an inconvenience or a monetary loss. We need to put obedience into the right context. We have many laws that are good and important for an orderly society. But there is a growing tendency for lawmakers to cater to those who are opposed to God and His laws. Whether we obey or break man’s law has consequences that can reach no further than the grave. But the consequences of obedience to the Word of God are eternal. For martyrs, there is a crown assured; for the faithful, there are rewards and commendations that will make every trial and affliction worth it all. The righteous Judge is recording all and will delight to reward all those whose love to Him caused them to obey His Word.
But we need not wait until the Judgment Seat of Christ to appreciate the blessings that our Lord has for those who obey Him. Consider His command: This do in remembrance of Me. Our obedience to this command provides rich spiritual blessings that endure throughout the week. Our appreciation for our Saviour and our salvation remains fresh and precious, and our hearts remain in tune for worship and praise. Obedience to God’s command for us to be honest ensures our peace of mind and peace with our neighbours. The Christian whose greatest desire is to obey and please his Lord enjoys a life of greater joys and satisfaction than can be appreciated by those with lesser desires.
Yes, we ought to obey God rather than men. Not just to please God but to also enjoy greater blessings ourselves. -Jim MacIntosh