I generally do not take exception to my pastor's theology of "obedience", just the central focus of it. He defines "obedience" as "faith in action", unlike the notion of rule following as many other preachers do. However, the ears of parishioners are tuned into rule following as the meaning of obedience. partially because our flesh demands legalism (equilibrium imperative) and partially because this is what the word actually means. Obedience is the somewhat automatic, demanded response to authority. The seas and the demons "obeyed" Jesus because of His authority over them. Obedience in scripture has a military context, soldiers have to obey their authority or they no longer remain soldiers.
When the basis of the Christian life is tied to this notion of obedience, behavior conforming to the law or God's commandments, then there is no joy, hope, and significance. This is a futile treadmill. This is why so many Christians live this side of eternity with a "grin and bear it" posture, looking for deliverance at our biological death. It is true that we do in some ways moan for our full redemption, but our life here and now should expect the outcome of the good news. Jesus came so that we may have joy, abundant life. Is that only for later? I don't think so.
A song by Aaron Senseman includes these lines,
"There is truth in His body, raised the third day.
There is joy in a stone rolled away.
There is hope pouring out of the tomb where He lay,
pouring out, pouring out over the grave."
To fully enjoy the reason for the season, we must find the freedom in Grace, not to do anything we wish, but to live in thanksgiving, without the shackles of our STINKIN THINKIN
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