OBEDIENCE (o-bas2dI-ens), (Heb. shaw mtzh', to hear intelligently), the fulfillment of a superior's command from regard to his authority.
(1) Characteristies,Ete. (t) Believers' "obedi ence" lies in believing the truths of the gospel, and therein receiving Jesus and his fullness, as the free gift of God; and, in consequence thereof. sincerely studying conformity to his image, and cheerful fulfillment of his whole law (Rom. vi: 16). This is called "obedience to the faith," be cause it begins in embracing the truths of the gospel, and is a fulfillment of the Divine law as revealed in the Scripture (Acts vi :7; Rom. i:5). It is an "obedience of faith:" it corresponds with the principles received by faith in the Scripture (Rom. xvi :26). (2) It is an "obedience of Christ ;" it flows from his dwelling in, and actuat ing our heart (2 Cor. x :5). (3) It is an "obedience unto righteousness" (Rom. vi:D5).
(4) It must spring from a heart renewed, and actuated by his indwelling Spirit (Ezek. xxxvi: 26, 27; Matt. vii:18; Gal. i :16 ; t Tim. i :5; Heb. ix:14). (5) It must be sincere (Ps. li :6 ; I Tim.
i:5). (6) Affectionate, springing from love, and not from terror (t John iv :19 ; John ii :5 ; 2 Cor. v:14). (7) Diligent, not slothful (Heb. vi :12 ; Ps. xviii :44; Rom. xii:ti). (8) Conspicuous and open (Phil. ii:15 ; Matt. v:t6). (9) Uni versal: not one duty, but all must be performed (2 Pet. i:5, to). (to) Perpetual, at all times, places, and occasions (Rom. ii :7 ; Gal. vi :9).
(2) Advantages. (t) It adorns the gospel (Tit. ii:to.) (2) It is evidential of grace (2 Cor. v :17). (3) It rejoices the hearts of the ministers and people of God (3 John 2, 3; t Thess. ii:19, 2o). (4) It silences gainsayers (Titus, i :9).
(5) Encourages believers, while it reproves the lukewarm (Matt. v:16). (6) Affords peace to the subject of it (Ps. xxv 13; Acts xxiv:I6). (7) It strongly recommends religion, as that which is both delightful and practicable (Col. i: to). (8) It is the forerunner and evidence of eternal glory (Rom. vi :22 ; Rev. xxii:14.) (Buck, Bib. Dict.; Brown, Bib. Dict.)