Serving God, Not Obeying Him
Back in December of 2003, I wrote an article with the above title. I actually wrote two articles back to back with this title. They originated from a lecture I heard given by my good friend William Woodson. He had made reference to an article written by David Lipscomb back in 1897.
In the article, Lipscomb was responding to a question regarding the possible withdrawal or disfellowship from Christians (individuals or groups) who were not in keeping with New Testament doctrine. In summation, his thoughts were that we should be patient and bear with any Christian who is trying to do the will of God. The breaking point for Lipscomb was a blatant disobedience to commands clearly taught in Scripture.
Within this article, I located this very powerful statement by Lipscomb:
I did not say everyone that desires to serve or worship God, but everyone that desires to do his will, to do what he requires, should be borne with and taught. I believe that those who sincerely desire to know his will that they may do it will be brought into a knowledge of his will. I believe millions who seek zealously to serve him, but do not seek to obey him, to do what he commands, will be lost.
Citing the discussion between Jesus and the Pharisees and scribes in Matthew 15, Lipscomb made a very clear distinction between people who sincerely offer service or worship to God, and people who obey his commands. It seems to me that it is rare to hear such a distinction made in our day and time. More crucial of course is not what Lipscomb thought, but what the Bible says. It just so happens that in this particular instance Lipscomb is right on point.
But rather than agree with what would be regarded as Lipscomb’s politically incorrect stance, instead, we are pressured into believing that ANYTHING people offer to God is the same as full obedience. The last time I checked, obedience is defined as “compliance with an order, request, or law or submission to another’s authority.” I also recall King Saul once claiming he had obeyed the voice of the Lord while there were oxen lowing in the background (you can check 1 Samuel 15 on that one).
So here’s the point. Don’t come to the church building thinking that your offering is going to be acceptable if it is not what God has specifically asked for. And don’t come thinking that he is going to accept it if your heart is in the wrong place while you are giving it. Worship is not rocket science.
And pleasing God is simple: Love him supremely. Obey him completely. Approach him reverently. Pray to him fervently. Learn his will humbly. Spread his word freely. Serve him tirelessly. Look for his return earnestly.
It is not enough just to serve him the way you want. Not if he truly is King.
“…Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice…” – 1 Samuel 15:22.
“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” – John 14:15.
