What does the Bible say about obedience?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that obedience is the grateful, Spirit-enabled response of those who trust and love God, not a way to earn salvation. Jesus says, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15), and Scripture defines love for God as keeping his commands, which are not burdensome to those born of him (1 John 5:3). Believers must obey God above human authorities (Acts 5:29), reject former sinful desires (1 Peter 1:14), and hear and keep God’s word (Luke 11:28). Though imperfect, Christians pursue obedience by grace, trusting that God blesses willing hearts (Isaiah 1:19) and teaches them his way (Psalm 119:30).
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- John 14:15 5 votes
If you love me, keep my commandments.
- Acts 5:29 3 votes
But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.
- 1 Peter 1:14 3 votes
as children of obedience, not conforming yourselves according to your former lusts as in your ignorance,
- 1 John 5:3 2 votes
For this is loving God, that we keep his commandments. His commandments are not grievous.
- Isaiah 1:19 2 votes
If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good of the land;
- Luke 6:46 2 votes
“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and don’t do the things which I say?
- Luke 11:28 2 votes
But he said, “On the contrary, blessed are those who hear the word of God, and keep it.”
- Exodus 23:22 2 votes
But if you indeed listen to his voice, and do all that I speak, then I will be an enemy to your enemies, and an adversary to your adversaries.
- Psalms 119:30 2 votes
I have chosen the way of truth. I have set your ordinances before me.
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