Purpose of This Topic
Topic 07 brings the study into the direct teaching of Jesus Himself. While many people affirm respect for Jesus, Scripture makes clear that acknowledging Him as Lord requires obedience to His words.
This Topic is essential because it removes any attempt to separate:
- Love for Christ from obedience to Christ
- Grace from submission
- Faith from action
Teachers should emphasize that Jesus never presented His words as optional guidance; He spoke with divine authority and expected response.
Question 1
Why does Jesus repeatedly connect obedience to His words with acknowledging Him as Lord?
Teaching Guidance
Jesus defines lordship by obedience. Calling Him “Lord” without submission is exposed as empty.
Key Scripture
- Luke 6:46
- Matthew 7:21–23
Teaching Note
Stress that this is Jesus’ own definition—not later theological interpretation.
Question 2
How does Jesus distinguish between hearing His words and doing them?
Teaching Guidance
Jesus consistently contrasts:
- Hearing vs. doing
- Building on rock vs. sand
Key Scripture
- Matthew 7:24–27
- Luke 8:21
Question 3
Why does Jesus describe obedience as the evidence of love rather than emotion or intention?
Teaching Guidance
Love for Christ is demonstrated through action, not sentiment.
Key Scripture
- John 14:15
- John 14:21
- John 15:10
Question 4
How does Jesus’ teaching challenge the idea that sincerity alone is sufficient?
Teaching Guidance
Jesus exposes sincere religious activity that lacks obedience as ineffective.
Key Scripture
- Matthew 7:22–23
- Matthew 23:1–3
Question 5
Why does Jesus emphasize doing the will of the Father rather than merely believing facts about Him?
Teaching Guidance
Belief that does not lead to obedience is incomplete.
Key Scripture
- Matthew 12:50
- John 6:29
- John 8:31–32
Question 6
How does Jesus’ authority affect how His commands are to be received?
Teaching Guidance
Jesus speaks as one sent by the Father. His words carry divine authority.
Key Scripture
- Matthew 28:18
- John 12:48–50
Question 7
What role does obedience play in receiving understanding, assurance, and clarity according to Jesus?
Teaching Guidance
Jesus teaches that understanding follows obedience.
Key Scripture
- John 7:17
- John 13:17
Question 8
How does Jesus address those who selectively obey His teaching?
Teaching Guidance
Selective obedience reveals divided allegiance.
Key Scripture
- Matthew 19:16–22
- Luke 14:26–33
Question 9
Why does Jesus warn against substituting religious activity for obedience?
Teaching Guidance
Religious activity without obedience leads to false assurance.
Key Scripture
- Matthew 15:8–9
- Mark 7:6–7
Question 10
How does Jesus define the cost of following Him?
Teaching Guidance
Following Jesus involves submission, sacrifice, and perseverance.
Key Scripture
- Luke 9:23
- Luke 14:27
Question 11
In what ways do Jesus’ words continue to challenge modern assumptions about grace and freedom?
Teaching Guidance
Grace does not remove authority; it clarifies responsibility.
Key Scripture
- John 8:31–36
- Matthew 11:28–30
Question 12
Why must the words of Christ remain central in defining faith, obedience, and unity?
Teaching Guidance
Jesus’ words are the standard by which all teaching is measured.
Key Scripture
- John 12:48
- Colossians 3:16
Teaching Summary (For the Instructor)
This Topic establishes that:
- Jesus defines obedience
- Love is demonstrated through action
- Lordship demands submission
The words of Christ are not inspirational suggestions—they are authoritative commands.
Optional Teaching Caution
Do not allow discussion to drift toward:
- “Jesus was just emphasizing principles”
- “Culture changes commands”
- “Obedience limits grace”
These ideas conflict with Jesus’ own teaching.
Closing Note for Teachers
Remind students:
Listening to Jesus means doing what He says.
Anything less is self-deception.