The question of which parts of the Bible Christians should obey is both profound and complex, touching on the core of Christian ethics and morality. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, it is essential to approach this question with a balanced understanding of biblical teachings, the historical context of the scriptures, and the overarching principles of the Christian faith.
To begin with, it is important to recognize that the Bible is a collection of diverse books written over centuries, encompassing various genres such as history, poetry, prophecy, and epistles. Despite this diversity, the Bible presents a unified narrative of God's relationship with humanity, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Given this unity, Christians are called to view the Bible holistically, discerning how its teachings apply to their lives today.
The Old Testament and the New Covenant
One of the first considerations in determining which parts of the Bible to obey is the distinction between the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament, or Hebrew Scriptures, contains laws, commandments, and narratives that were given to the people of Israel. These include the moral laws, such as the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17), the ceremonial laws related to worship and sacrifices (Leviticus), and the civil laws governing the nation of Israel.
With the advent of Jesus Christ, the New Testament introduces the concept of the New Covenant. Jesus himself stated, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them" (Matthew 5:17, NIV). This fulfillment means that while the moral principles of the Old Testament remain relevant, the ceremonial and civil laws specific to Israel are no longer binding on Christians. The Apostle Paul reinforces this idea in his letters, explaining that believers are no longer under the law but under grace (Romans 6:14).
The Teachings of Jesus
Central to Christian ethics are the teachings of Jesus, who summarized the entirety of the law and the prophets with two commandments: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" and "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-39, NIV). These commandments encapsulate the essence of Christian morality and provide a framework for interpreting the rest of the Bible.
Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) further elaborates on this ethical framework, emphasizing internal righteousness over external compliance. For instance, Jesus teaches that anger and hatred are as culpable as murder (Matthew 5:21-22), and lustful thoughts are equivalent to adultery (Matthew 5:27-28). These teachings call Christians to a higher standard of moral integrity, rooted in love and purity of heart.
The Apostolic Teachings
The writings of the Apostles, particularly those of Paul, Peter, James, and John, provide additional guidance on Christian living. These epistles address various ethical issues, from personal conduct to community relationships, and offer practical advice for embodying Christ-like virtues.
Paul's letters, for example, emphasize the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)—as markers of a life led by the Holy Spirit. He also addresses specific moral concerns, such as sexual immorality, greed, and dishonesty, urging believers to "put off your old self" and "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:22-24, NIV).
Peter's epistles encourage Christians to live as "foreigners and exiles" in the world, abstaining from sinful desires and conducting themselves honorably among non-believers (1 Peter 2:11-12). James, known for his practical wisdom, stresses the importance of faith expressed through actions, reminding believers that "faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead" (James 2:17, NIV).
Contextual Application
While the ethical teachings of the Bible are timeless, their application must consider the cultural and historical context of the original audience. For instance, certain instructions in Paul's letters, such as those regarding head coverings (1 Corinthians 11:2-16) or greetings with a holy kiss (Romans 16:16), were culturally specific and may not directly translate to contemporary practices. However, the underlying principles—respect for established customs and expressions of Christian love—remain relevant.
Christians are therefore called to discern how biblical principles apply to their unique contexts, guided by the Holy Spirit and the collective wisdom of the Christian community. This discernment process involves prayerful reflection, study of the scriptures, and seeking counsel from mature believers.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
Another crucial aspect of Christian obedience is the role of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised his disciples that the Holy Spirit would guide them into all truth (John 16:13). The Holy Spirit empowers believers to understand and apply the scriptures, convicting them of sin and leading them into righteousness. The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit enables Christians to live out the ethical teachings of the Bible, not through their own strength but through divine empowerment.
Unity and Diversity in the Body of Christ
The diversity within the body of Christ also affects how Christians understand and obey the Bible. Different Christian traditions may emphasize various aspects of biblical teaching, reflecting their unique theological perspectives and historical experiences. This diversity should be seen as a strength, offering a richer and more nuanced understanding of the scriptures.
However, unity in the essentials of the faith is paramount. The core tenets of Christianity, such as the divinity of Jesus, his atoning sacrifice, and the call to love God and neighbor, provide a common foundation for ethical living. Christians are encouraged to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3, NIV), recognizing that their shared commitment to following Christ transcends denominational differences.
The Transformative Power of the Gospel
Ultimately, the question of which parts of the Bible Christians should obey is rooted in the transformative power of the gospel. The gospel is not merely a set of ethical guidelines but the good news of God's redemptive work in Jesus Christ. Through faith in Christ, believers are reconciled to God, forgiven of their sins, and empowered to live new lives characterized by love, justice, and mercy.
The Apostle Paul captures this transformative vision in his letter to the Romans: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:1-2, NIV). This renewal of the mind involves aligning one's thoughts, attitudes, and actions with the teachings of the Bible, guided by the Holy Spirit and motivated by love for God and others.
Conclusion
In summary, Christians are called to obey the Bible in a holistic and discerning manner, recognizing the fulfillment of the Old Testament in Jesus Christ and embracing the ethical teachings of the New Testament. This obedience is not a legalistic adherence to rules but a response to the transformative power of the gospel, empowered by the Holy Spirit and expressed through love for God and neighbor. By living out the principles of the Bible in their unique contexts, Christians bear witness to the redemptive work of God and contribute to the flourishing of the world.
