The Bible repeatedly addresses the outcomes of obedience and disobedience. It reveals that blessings follow obedience and curses follow disobedience. This truth was plainly explained to the children of Israel on several occasions. In fact, the Bible lists the curses that follow disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:15-44). The curses range from personal judgment to national judgment, but the obvious fact was that disobedience withheld blessings. For instance, disobedience drove Adam and Eve from the garden in Eden (Genesis 3:22-24). Saul's disobedience cost him his kingdom (1 Samuel 28:18). Moses' disobedience meant that he could not enter into the land of promise (Numbers 20:12). The consequences of disobedience may differ today, but every act of disobedience has negative consequences.
Diligent Bible study is commanded of God. However, far too many Christians simply fail to comprehend the depths and riches of God's words. For instance, society has distorted the meaning of obey by limiting obedience solely to following a set of commands. Although obedience certainly does involve following the rules, the Bible indicates a much broader application. Today's passage sheds light on obedience and the depth of its meaning. The Bible says that Israel “would not hear them, nor do them” (that is, hear or do the commandments of God). With this context, it is easy to understand that the Bible defines disobedience as the refusal to hear and do the commandments of the Lord. Other similar passages teach this same truth (1 Samuel 15:22; Proverbs 5:13; Jeremiah 17:23). Obedience is twofold: first, the individual must have an attentive ear, and second, he must act by faith.
Any person who suggests that Christianity is simply an easy way to avoid the trials of life speaks as a fool or a liar. In actuality, the Christian life involves an ongoing, outward battle along with a constant inner struggle. Perhaps the greater of the two is the struggle which exists within a believer. Part of the Christian (called the new man) wants to do right, while the other part delights in doing wrong and following the old ways (the old man). Faith in God’s word and God’s plan is a primary means of assuring one’s spiritual success. Today’s passage focuses on the absolute necessity for personal faith within the life of a Christian. The book of Hebrews says, “without faith it is impossible to please him [God].” Hence, the Bible repeatedly states that unbelief displeases God. In fact, faith is so crucial to pleasing God that He devoted an entire Bible chapter pointing to the lives of those who exemplified faith. Since God spent the time, space, and effort to chronicle the faith of those of the past, He surely places no less emphasis on the faith of those living today.
