Surrender and Obedience
Surrender means to admit you are powerless and that you need help.
The act of surrendering; the act of yielding, or resigning one's person, or the possession of something, into the power of another; the surrender of a right.
Obedience is an attitude of heart toward a higher authority. As believers, that higher authority is YHWH Himself.
Surrender is what Yahusha was commanding when he said, "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it." Matthew 16:25
It sounds scary, but surrender, complete obedience to YAH, is what's required of us to have relationship with YHWH and Yahushua.
To a believer, surrender means to completely gives up his own will and subjects his thoughts, ideas and deeds to the will and teachings of a Yeshua (Jesus) and the word of YAH (The Bible).
Yahusha is the head of the believer. The first main principle of "surrender" is "Dying to Self" or the "emptying of self" to allow Yahusha to live through the believer, illustrated in the following passages:
For to me to live is Yahusha, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21
For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Yahusha in YHWH. Colossians 3:3
The second issue of surrender is allowing Yahusha to "take our place" through the believer, in other words, the emptying of self so that YAH may live through the believer as evidenced in Philippians 1:21.
sur·ren·der, sur·ren·dered, sur·ren·der·ing, sur·ren·ders
1. To relinquish possession or control of to another because of demand or compulsion.
2. To give up in favor of another.
3. To give up or give back (something that has been granted): surrender a contractual right.
4. To give up or abandon: surrender all hope.
5. To give over or resign (oneself) to something, as to an emotion: surrendered himself to grief.
surrender (noun)
1.the act of submitting; usually surrendering power to another
2.the act of surrendering (usually under agreed conditions
3.the delivery of a principal into lawful custody
4.a verbal act of admitting defeat
5.acceptance of despair
surrender (verb.)
1.give up or agree to forgo to the power or possession of another
2.relinquish to the power of another; yield to the control of another
3.relinquish possession or control over
Hebrew words for surrender" according to strongs:
2778 charaph. khaw-raf' a primitive root; to pull off, i.e. (by implication) to expose (as by stripping); specifically, to betroth (as if a surrender); figuratively, to carp at, i.e. defame; denominative (from 2779) to spend the winter:--betroth, blaspheme, defy, jeopard, rail, reproach, upbraid.
4042 magan maw-gan' a denominative from 4043; properly, to shield; encompass with; figuratively, to rescue, to hand safely over (i.e. surrender):--deliver.
4376 makar maw-kar' a primitive root; to sell, literally (as merchandise, a daughter in marriage, into slavery), or figuratively (to surrender):--X at all, sell (away, -er, self).
5462 cagar saw-gar' a primitive root; to shut up; figuratively, to surrender:--close up, deliver (up), give over (up), inclose, X pure, repair, shut (in, self, out, up, up together), stop, X straitly.
5534 caker saw-kar' a primitive root; to shut up; by implication, to surrender:--stop, give over. See also 5462,7936.
Surrender to YAH's Will.
Surrendering to YAH's will entail both the "surrender of our will to His in which His plan prevails over ours and to the surrender of our will for individual life to "His will for our personal lives."
This is done through the emptying or dying of self, the "putting self aside" in favor of divine influence. This includes the idea of surrendering to a call (the word "vocation" is rooted in the Latin vocare, referring to YAH's voice).
The result of this personal surrender is obedience and obedience to YAH indicates bringing about His will thus having lasting earthly and divine blessings.
The ultimate act of Surrender which the believer is called to emulate is the surrender of Yahusha coming into the world as YHWH incarnate and then the surrender to the tree in the act of sacrificial atonement, breaking the Curse of sin and death for all that will believe. He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the tree. Philippians 2:7-8
Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. Luke 22:42
The greatest commandment is to love YAH by keeping His commandments. Matthew 22:36-38 says, "'Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?' Yahusha replied: 'Love YHWH with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment.'"
We must believe in Yahusha, we must have faith in Him, and we must trust Him! Calling ourselves a believer on its own won't do. Reading Scripture diligently won't do. We have to take the Word into our hearts and become doer of the word by living and doing what the word says. When we make the transition from calling ourselves a good believer to being someone who is Set Apart by having a deep personal and intimate relationship with the word of YAH, then we can have the greatest joy, the deepest of peace, and receive the fullest measure of YAH's love and power each and every day of our lives.
What is Obedience?
"For as by one man's (Adam) disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of One Yahusha shall many be made righteous" Romans 5:19.
Yahusha lived in total obedience to his Father and calls everyone to do the same. When we make that decision to obey, we follow Yahusha in the purest way possible.
A believer's obedience comes from his faith in Yahusha. Through him and for his name's sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. Romans 1:5.
Redemption, which is necessary because of the disobedience of man, is possible because of the obedience of Yahusha. Obedience is at the center of man's problem and YAH's solution. As we study the true meaning of obedience we see the necessity of obedience for salvation, blessing and living a life that honors YAH.
You ask, "How important is obedience to YAH?" In the gospel of John, obedience to YAH is underscored time and time again. John 14:15 says, "If you love me, you will obey what I command."
Obedience to YAH is very important in your growth. We can honor and maintain obedience to YAH by pondering, or meditating on the words of Yahusha. The term "to ponder" means to weigh in the mind, to think or reflect, especially quietly and deeply. To ponder on something is like meditation which implies a definite focusing of one's thoughts on something in order to understand it deeply.
The author of Proverbs 14:15 makes a good point: "A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps."
Yahusha is very concerned about us and He wants us to do more than participate in good works, He wants us to believe in Him. He wants us to come up higher and be "like" Him. When we are being obedient to YAH, we are doing just that: knowing Him, loving Him, and having a personal, intimate relationship with Him. To do this, we must be attentive to YAH's commandments. This is not an option, because you can't have an intimate relationship with Yahusha and not live by the words He taught. Obedience to YAH is living YAH's Word because you want to and enjoy being filled with the love of Yahushua.
Definition
When we generally think of obedience, we think of doing what one is instructed to do. In speaking to our children we may say, "Will you please obey me and do what you are told?" What we mean is, "Please carry out my instructions." Such uses are not far removed from the intended meaning of Scripture, but far enough that the true essence of the word is lost.
In Scripture there are several different words used for obedience. In order to establish the principal meaning of these words in our minds, we will look at two of them briefly.
Shama This Hebrew word is the primary one used throughout the Old Testament. The word has as its primary root the meaning, "to hear intelligently." Note the word hear, It is central to the meaning.
Hupakouo This Greek word is used widely throughout the New Testament.
The word is really made up of two words: hupo meaning under or beneath, and akouo meaning to hear. Thus the meaning of the word could be stated as, "to hear under." It carried with it the thought of subordination, or the recognition of authority and wisdom. It is an attitude of hearing.
Hebrew meaning of “obedience" from Strong’s Hebrew:
851 'Eshtmoa` esh-tem-o'-ah or bEshtmowam {esh-tem-o'-ah}; or sEshtmoh {esh-tem-o'}; from 8085 (in the sense of obedience); Eshtemoa or Eshtemoh, a place in Palestine:--Eshtemoa, Eshtemoh.
3349 yiqqahah yik-kaw-haw' from the same as 3348; obedience: -gathering, to obey.
3354 Yquwthiy'el yek-ooth-ee'-ale from the same as 3348 and 410; obedience of YHWH; Jekuthiel, an Israelite:--Jekuthiel.
8085 shama` shaw-mah' a primitive root; to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.): attentively, call (gather) together, carefully, certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness.
8445 Towqahath to-kah'-ath from the same as 3349; obedience; Tokahath, an Israelite: Tikvath (by correction for 8616).
Webster's dictionary: defines obedient as being submissive to the restraint or command of authority: willing to obey. So to be obedient to someone is to be submissive and willing to obey him or her. Willing means to obey with joy. To be willing to obey means that you should have already realized what needs to be done and do it without being asked.
Obedience is an attitude of heart toward a higher authority. As believers, that higher authority is YHWH Himself.
Yahusha said in John 14:15, "If ye love Me, keep My commandments." It also deals with the individual's own attitude toward YAH.
Legalism, on the other hand, places the commandment above the commander. It places the emphasis on the law itself, and the keeping of it for law's sake, rather than to the glory of its Giver. Those who are legalistic also tend to look at the activities of others rather than their own heart (attitude).
We must realize that obedience is something we will want to question our own hearts about.
Biblical references to "Obedience":
Old Testament –
Hebrew word shama - "to hear, listen, obey"
"if you obey My voice ..., you shall be My possession" Exodus 19:5
"All that YAH has spoken we will do; we will be obedient" Exodus 24:7
"Hear, O Israel, YHWH is One" Deuteronomy 6:4
"if you listen obediently to My commandments" Deuteronomy 11:13
"to obey is better than sacrifice" 1 Samuel 15:22
"My people did not listen to My voice; Israel did not obey Me" Psalms 81:11
New Testament
1. Greek word hupakouo - "to listen under, to obey;" opposite is parakouo - "to listen around, beside, disobedience" Romans. 5:19
"obedience of faith among the Gentiles" Romans 1:5
"obedience of faith" Romans 16:26
“taking every thought captive to the obedience of Yahusha" II Corinthians 10:5
"those who do not obey the gospel of Yahusha" II Thessalonians 1:8
"He became to all who obey Him the source of salvation" Hebrews 5:9
"that you may obey Yahusha the Messiah" 1 Peter 1:2
"As obedient children...be Set apart" 1 Peter 1:14
"you have in obedience to the ruth purified your souls" 1 Peter 1:22
2. Greek words peitho and peitharcheo - "to persuade, convince;" opposite is apeitheo - "unconvinced, disobedient" Ephesians. 2:2; 5:6
"we must obey YAH rather than men" Acts 5:29
"the Spirit whom YHWH has given to those who obey Him" Acts 5:32
"do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness" Romans 2:8
"who hindered you from obeying the truth?" Galatians 5:7
From all of these Scriptures, we have a clear picture that true believers can and do obey YAH's commandments and are not living immorally.
Obedience to YAH's Commands
Grace without obedience to Yahusha is a counterfeit grace, living as though YAH ignores or condones our sins. Forgiveness means that sin is real, and must be dealt with. We cannot ignore it, because YAH does not ignore it. The denial of sin is not grace: it is a lie.
Counterfeit grace is grace without obedience, it is not the grace given to us through Yahusha. Counterfeit grace is living without the demand of obedience upon us.
And where there is no call for obedience, then all things are tolerated. "Do your own thing" becomes the norm and nothing can be labeled as "sinful." No act is clearly right or wrong. Thus, there is no need of forgiveness. But John insists that YAH calls us to obey the commands that have been given, he also reminds us that when we fall short of keeping them, there is forgiveness in Yahushuat. Whether thoughts, words or deeds, they can be dealt with only when one confesses and is forgiven. In short, the call to confession and the offer of forgiveness go hand in hand with the call to obedience.
Obedience is the basis of having assurance of knowing YAH. Those who know YAH are obedient to the commands of YAH. Obedience is the manifestation or evidence of our knowledge of YAH.
The idea that knowledge of YAH expresses itself in obedience has its roots in the Old Testament. The prophets especially spoke of knowing YAH, though more often they rebuked the people for not knowing YAH Job 36:12; Jeremiah 9:6; Isaiah 1:3; 5:13; 1 Samuel 2:12.
The lack of knowledge of YAH does not imply intellectual inadequacy in comprehending YAH. Rather it points to a moral failure, to a lack of faithfulness and obedience. Those who know YHWH, live according to the way that YAH prescribes. "Knowing YAH" is understood in personal, intimate relationship terms.
To claim to love and know YAH without acknowledging YAH's claim upon us signifies a lack of relationship with YAH, a lack of abiding or living in him. The concept of "abiding" points to steadfast faithfulness. This is what YAH wants of us, Obedience and Love for YHWH.
It is simply impossible to claim to love or to know YAH without also living in obedience to YAH. In obedience to the commands, our love for YAH is truly made complete, not made morally perfect or without flaw, but lived out as our perfect expression of love for YAH like found in Yahusha's own example.
Those who are "in YAH" are those whose character and behavior are shaped by YAH's truth, righteousness and love. In fact, YAH's truth is viewed as something that is active, indwelling and powerful, something that shapes the person in whom it dwells. Obviously, then, those who have YAH's truth within them, and who know YAH, will manifest YAH's character.
Obedience to YAH is simple. Do as the Word of YAH tell you or as the Spirit of YHWH directs you!
Now your flesh will tell you that it cannot be done.
Matthew 19:26 tells us that with YAH ALL things are possible, ALL not some. Now YAH cannot lie and He is no respecter of persons, so what He does for one He will do for you. So when Yahusha told His disciples that all things are possible through YAH, then He is telling that to you also.
The sinful nature of man is such that we hate correction, but Proverbs 15:10 tells us that he who hates correction will die. So we had better learn to like it. Just keep in mind that YAH only corrects those that He loves.
My son, do not make light of Yahusha's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because Yahusha disciplines those he loves and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. Hebrews 12:5-11
Discipline; YAH is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live!
YAH disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. So rejoice in Yahusha's discipline because it means that He loves you. If He does not discipline you then it means you are illegitimate.
We are corrected so that we can share in YAH's blessings so we might know the righteousness and peace of YAH. But the most important thing is to learn from your discipline and to not repeat your mistakes.
In your obedience you will be blessed, but as with all of YAH's promises there is a prerequisite. YOU MUST OBEY!! It is not as hard as you think. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy my burden is light Matthew 11:28-30.
Disobedience can bring forth spiritual death to a person who was once saved, Ponder the following Scriptures that clarify this and do not let yourself be deceived:
Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? Romans 6:16
for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans8:13
For YAH did not call us to be impure, but to live a Set Apart life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but YHWH, who gives you his Ruach ha Kodesh. 1 Thessalonians 4:7, 8
For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Yahushua and YHWH. 6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of YHWH comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not be partakers with them. Ephesians. 5:5-7
Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of YHWH? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of YHWH. 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10
But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death. Revelations 21:8
The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of YHWH. Galatians 5:19-21
The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:8, 9
My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins James 5:19,20
And remember this, Yahusha described his true spiritual family as those who put into practice YAH's word and do his will. He replied, "My mother and brothers are those who hear YAH's word and put it into practice.” Luke 8:21
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." Matthew 7:24-27
The importance of your obedience to YAH and the seriousness of disobedience (sin) is partly shown by these Scripture verses and were used to give you a picture of how serious obedience is to YAH and how it can effect your walk with Yahusha and also how it can effect your eternal destiny, as we are called to walk the narrow path and are called to live different then the world does.
Without complete surrender and obedience to YAH’s will and to his word we will never reach a true relationship with Yahusha and we will never have victory in our lives. Obedience is what releases YAH’s promises into our lives and it also is what releases his power and authority into our lives over the attacks of the enemy and breaks the strong holds of the enemy in our lives.
Through complete surrender and obedience to YAH’s word and his will, we can live in victory and the fullness of what YHWH has designed for his chosen people to live here on earth. Obedience activates the gifts of the Spirit and Faith within us to believe YAH’s word and is required to live a powerful, rewarding life in Yahusha!
The act of surrendering; the act of yielding, or resigning one's person, or the possession of something, into the power of another; the surrender of a right.
Obedience is an attitude of heart toward a higher authority. As believers, that higher authority is YHWH Himself.
Surrender is what Yahusha was commanding when he said, "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it." Matthew 16:25
It sounds scary, but surrender, complete obedience to YAH, is what's required of us to have relationship with YHWH and Yahushua.
To a believer, surrender means to completely gives up his own will and subjects his thoughts, ideas and deeds to the will and teachings of a Yeshua (Jesus) and the word of YAH (The Bible).
Yahusha is the head of the believer. The first main principle of "surrender" is "Dying to Self" or the "emptying of self" to allow Yahusha to live through the believer, illustrated in the following passages:
For to me to live is Yahusha, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21
For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Yahusha in YHWH. Colossians 3:3
The second issue of surrender is allowing Yahusha to "take our place" through the believer, in other words, the emptying of self so that YAH may live through the believer as evidenced in Philippians 1:21.
sur·ren·der, sur·ren·dered, sur·ren·der·ing, sur·ren·ders
1. To relinquish possession or control of to another because of demand or compulsion.
2. To give up in favor of another.
3. To give up or give back (something that has been granted): surrender a contractual right.
4. To give up or abandon: surrender all hope.
5. To give over or resign (oneself) to something, as to an emotion: surrendered himself to grief.
surrender (noun)
1.the act of submitting; usually surrendering power to another
2.the act of surrendering (usually under agreed conditions
3.the delivery of a principal into lawful custody
4.a verbal act of admitting defeat
5.acceptance of despair
surrender (verb.)
1.give up or agree to forgo to the power or possession of another
2.relinquish to the power of another; yield to the control of another
3.relinquish possession or control over
Hebrew words for surrender" according to strongs:
2778 charaph. khaw-raf' a primitive root; to pull off, i.e. (by implication) to expose (as by stripping); specifically, to betroth (as if a surrender); figuratively, to carp at, i.e. defame; denominative (from 2779) to spend the winter:--betroth, blaspheme, defy, jeopard, rail, reproach, upbraid.
4042 magan maw-gan' a denominative from 4043; properly, to shield; encompass with; figuratively, to rescue, to hand safely over (i.e. surrender):--deliver.
4376 makar maw-kar' a primitive root; to sell, literally (as merchandise, a daughter in marriage, into slavery), or figuratively (to surrender):--X at all, sell (away, -er, self).
5462 cagar saw-gar' a primitive root; to shut up; figuratively, to surrender:--close up, deliver (up), give over (up), inclose, X pure, repair, shut (in, self, out, up, up together), stop, X straitly.
5534 caker saw-kar' a primitive root; to shut up; by implication, to surrender:--stop, give over. See also 5462,7936.
Surrender to YAH's Will.
Surrendering to YAH's will entail both the "surrender of our will to His in which His plan prevails over ours and to the surrender of our will for individual life to "His will for our personal lives."
This is done through the emptying or dying of self, the "putting self aside" in favor of divine influence. This includes the idea of surrendering to a call (the word "vocation" is rooted in the Latin vocare, referring to YAH's voice).
The result of this personal surrender is obedience and obedience to YAH indicates bringing about His will thus having lasting earthly and divine blessings.
The ultimate act of Surrender which the believer is called to emulate is the surrender of Yahusha coming into the world as YHWH incarnate and then the surrender to the tree in the act of sacrificial atonement, breaking the Curse of sin and death for all that will believe. He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the tree. Philippians 2:7-8
Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. Luke 22:42
The greatest commandment is to love YAH by keeping His commandments. Matthew 22:36-38 says, "'Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?' Yahusha replied: 'Love YHWH with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment.'"
We must believe in Yahusha, we must have faith in Him, and we must trust Him! Calling ourselves a believer on its own won't do. Reading Scripture diligently won't do. We have to take the Word into our hearts and become doer of the word by living and doing what the word says. When we make the transition from calling ourselves a good believer to being someone who is Set Apart by having a deep personal and intimate relationship with the word of YAH, then we can have the greatest joy, the deepest of peace, and receive the fullest measure of YAH's love and power each and every day of our lives.
What is Obedience?
"For as by one man's (Adam) disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of One Yahusha shall many be made righteous" Romans 5:19.
Yahusha lived in total obedience to his Father and calls everyone to do the same. When we make that decision to obey, we follow Yahusha in the purest way possible.
A believer's obedience comes from his faith in Yahusha. Through him and for his name's sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. Romans 1:5.
Redemption, which is necessary because of the disobedience of man, is possible because of the obedience of Yahusha. Obedience is at the center of man's problem and YAH's solution. As we study the true meaning of obedience we see the necessity of obedience for salvation, blessing and living a life that honors YAH.
You ask, "How important is obedience to YAH?" In the gospel of John, obedience to YAH is underscored time and time again. John 14:15 says, "If you love me, you will obey what I command."
Obedience to YAH is very important in your growth. We can honor and maintain obedience to YAH by pondering, or meditating on the words of Yahusha. The term "to ponder" means to weigh in the mind, to think or reflect, especially quietly and deeply. To ponder on something is like meditation which implies a definite focusing of one's thoughts on something in order to understand it deeply.
The author of Proverbs 14:15 makes a good point: "A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps."
Yahusha is very concerned about us and He wants us to do more than participate in good works, He wants us to believe in Him. He wants us to come up higher and be "like" Him. When we are being obedient to YAH, we are doing just that: knowing Him, loving Him, and having a personal, intimate relationship with Him. To do this, we must be attentive to YAH's commandments. This is not an option, because you can't have an intimate relationship with Yahusha and not live by the words He taught. Obedience to YAH is living YAH's Word because you want to and enjoy being filled with the love of Yahushua.
Definition
When we generally think of obedience, we think of doing what one is instructed to do. In speaking to our children we may say, "Will you please obey me and do what you are told?" What we mean is, "Please carry out my instructions." Such uses are not far removed from the intended meaning of Scripture, but far enough that the true essence of the word is lost.
In Scripture there are several different words used for obedience. In order to establish the principal meaning of these words in our minds, we will look at two of them briefly.
Shama This Hebrew word is the primary one used throughout the Old Testament. The word has as its primary root the meaning, "to hear intelligently." Note the word hear, It is central to the meaning.
Hupakouo This Greek word is used widely throughout the New Testament.
The word is really made up of two words: hupo meaning under or beneath, and akouo meaning to hear. Thus the meaning of the word could be stated as, "to hear under." It carried with it the thought of subordination, or the recognition of authority and wisdom. It is an attitude of hearing.
Hebrew meaning of “obedience" from Strong’s Hebrew:
851 'Eshtmoa` esh-tem-o'-ah or bEshtmowam {esh-tem-o'-ah}; or sEshtmoh {esh-tem-o'}; from 8085 (in the sense of obedience); Eshtemoa or Eshtemoh, a place in Palestine:--Eshtemoa, Eshtemoh.
3349 yiqqahah yik-kaw-haw' from the same as 3348; obedience: -gathering, to obey.
3354 Yquwthiy'el yek-ooth-ee'-ale from the same as 3348 and 410; obedience of YHWH; Jekuthiel, an Israelite:--Jekuthiel.
8085 shama` shaw-mah' a primitive root; to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.): attentively, call (gather) together, carefully, certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness.
8445 Towqahath to-kah'-ath from the same as 3349; obedience; Tokahath, an Israelite: Tikvath (by correction for 8616).
Webster's dictionary: defines obedient as being submissive to the restraint or command of authority: willing to obey. So to be obedient to someone is to be submissive and willing to obey him or her. Willing means to obey with joy. To be willing to obey means that you should have already realized what needs to be done and do it without being asked.
Obedience is an attitude of heart toward a higher authority. As believers, that higher authority is YHWH Himself.
Yahusha said in John 14:15, "If ye love Me, keep My commandments." It also deals with the individual's own attitude toward YAH.
Legalism, on the other hand, places the commandment above the commander. It places the emphasis on the law itself, and the keeping of it for law's sake, rather than to the glory of its Giver. Those who are legalistic also tend to look at the activities of others rather than their own heart (attitude).
We must realize that obedience is something we will want to question our own hearts about.
Biblical references to "Obedience":
Old Testament –
Hebrew word shama - "to hear, listen, obey"
"if you obey My voice ..., you shall be My possession" Exodus 19:5
"All that YAH has spoken we will do; we will be obedient" Exodus 24:7
"Hear, O Israel, YHWH is One" Deuteronomy 6:4
"if you listen obediently to My commandments" Deuteronomy 11:13
"to obey is better than sacrifice" 1 Samuel 15:22
"My people did not listen to My voice; Israel did not obey Me" Psalms 81:11
New Testament
1. Greek word hupakouo - "to listen under, to obey;" opposite is parakouo - "to listen around, beside, disobedience" Romans. 5:19
"obedience of faith among the Gentiles" Romans 1:5
"obedience of faith" Romans 16:26
“taking every thought captive to the obedience of Yahusha" II Corinthians 10:5
"those who do not obey the gospel of Yahusha" II Thessalonians 1:8
"He became to all who obey Him the source of salvation" Hebrews 5:9
"that you may obey Yahusha the Messiah" 1 Peter 1:2
"As obedient children...be Set apart" 1 Peter 1:14
"you have in obedience to the ruth purified your souls" 1 Peter 1:22
2. Greek words peitho and peitharcheo - "to persuade, convince;" opposite is apeitheo - "unconvinced, disobedient" Ephesians. 2:2; 5:6
"we must obey YAH rather than men" Acts 5:29
"the Spirit whom YHWH has given to those who obey Him" Acts 5:32
"do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness" Romans 2:8
"who hindered you from obeying the truth?" Galatians 5:7
From all of these Scriptures, we have a clear picture that true believers can and do obey YAH's commandments and are not living immorally.
Obedience to YAH's Commands
Grace without obedience to Yahusha is a counterfeit grace, living as though YAH ignores or condones our sins. Forgiveness means that sin is real, and must be dealt with. We cannot ignore it, because YAH does not ignore it. The denial of sin is not grace: it is a lie.
Counterfeit grace is grace without obedience, it is not the grace given to us through Yahusha. Counterfeit grace is living without the demand of obedience upon us.
And where there is no call for obedience, then all things are tolerated. "Do your own thing" becomes the norm and nothing can be labeled as "sinful." No act is clearly right or wrong. Thus, there is no need of forgiveness. But John insists that YAH calls us to obey the commands that have been given, he also reminds us that when we fall short of keeping them, there is forgiveness in Yahushuat. Whether thoughts, words or deeds, they can be dealt with only when one confesses and is forgiven. In short, the call to confession and the offer of forgiveness go hand in hand with the call to obedience.
Obedience is the basis of having assurance of knowing YAH. Those who know YAH are obedient to the commands of YAH. Obedience is the manifestation or evidence of our knowledge of YAH.
The idea that knowledge of YAH expresses itself in obedience has its roots in the Old Testament. The prophets especially spoke of knowing YAH, though more often they rebuked the people for not knowing YAH Job 36:12; Jeremiah 9:6; Isaiah 1:3; 5:13; 1 Samuel 2:12.
The lack of knowledge of YAH does not imply intellectual inadequacy in comprehending YAH. Rather it points to a moral failure, to a lack of faithfulness and obedience. Those who know YHWH, live according to the way that YAH prescribes. "Knowing YAH" is understood in personal, intimate relationship terms.
To claim to love and know YAH without acknowledging YAH's claim upon us signifies a lack of relationship with YAH, a lack of abiding or living in him. The concept of "abiding" points to steadfast faithfulness. This is what YAH wants of us, Obedience and Love for YHWH.
It is simply impossible to claim to love or to know YAH without also living in obedience to YAH. In obedience to the commands, our love for YAH is truly made complete, not made morally perfect or without flaw, but lived out as our perfect expression of love for YAH like found in Yahusha's own example.
Those who are "in YAH" are those whose character and behavior are shaped by YAH's truth, righteousness and love. In fact, YAH's truth is viewed as something that is active, indwelling and powerful, something that shapes the person in whom it dwells. Obviously, then, those who have YAH's truth within them, and who know YAH, will manifest YAH's character.
Obedience to YAH is simple. Do as the Word of YAH tell you or as the Spirit of YHWH directs you!
Now your flesh will tell you that it cannot be done.
Matthew 19:26 tells us that with YAH ALL things are possible, ALL not some. Now YAH cannot lie and He is no respecter of persons, so what He does for one He will do for you. So when Yahusha told His disciples that all things are possible through YAH, then He is telling that to you also.
The sinful nature of man is such that we hate correction, but Proverbs 15:10 tells us that he who hates correction will die. So we had better learn to like it. Just keep in mind that YAH only corrects those that He loves.
My son, do not make light of Yahusha's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because Yahusha disciplines those he loves and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. Hebrews 12:5-11
Discipline; YAH is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live!
YAH disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. So rejoice in Yahusha's discipline because it means that He loves you. If He does not discipline you then it means you are illegitimate.
We are corrected so that we can share in YAH's blessings so we might know the righteousness and peace of YAH. But the most important thing is to learn from your discipline and to not repeat your mistakes.
In your obedience you will be blessed, but as with all of YAH's promises there is a prerequisite. YOU MUST OBEY!! It is not as hard as you think. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy my burden is light Matthew 11:28-30.
Disobedience can bring forth spiritual death to a person who was once saved, Ponder the following Scriptures that clarify this and do not let yourself be deceived:
Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? Romans 6:16
for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans8:13
For YAH did not call us to be impure, but to live a Set Apart life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but YHWH, who gives you his Ruach ha Kodesh. 1 Thessalonians 4:7, 8
For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Yahushua and YHWH. 6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of YHWH comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not be partakers with them. Ephesians. 5:5-7
Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of YHWH? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of YHWH. 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10
But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death. Revelations 21:8
The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of YHWH. Galatians 5:19-21
The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:8, 9
My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins James 5:19,20
And remember this, Yahusha described his true spiritual family as those who put into practice YAH's word and do his will. He replied, "My mother and brothers are those who hear YAH's word and put it into practice.” Luke 8:21
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." Matthew 7:24-27
The importance of your obedience to YAH and the seriousness of disobedience (sin) is partly shown by these Scripture verses and were used to give you a picture of how serious obedience is to YAH and how it can effect your walk with Yahusha and also how it can effect your eternal destiny, as we are called to walk the narrow path and are called to live different then the world does.
Without complete surrender and obedience to YAH’s will and to his word we will never reach a true relationship with Yahusha and we will never have victory in our lives. Obedience is what releases YAH’s promises into our lives and it also is what releases his power and authority into our lives over the attacks of the enemy and breaks the strong holds of the enemy in our lives.
Through complete surrender and obedience to YAH’s word and his will, we can live in victory and the fullness of what YHWH has designed for his chosen people to live here on earth. Obedience activates the gifts of the Spirit and Faith within us to believe YAH’s word and is required to live a powerful, rewarding life in Yahusha!
