MEN WILL DO ANYTHING TO KEEP FROM OBEYING GOD! By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: "For this people’s heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them." (Matthew 13:15, ESV)
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Introduction: A Call to Obedience and Repentance
In every generation, humanity has demonstrated an innate tendency to resist God’s will. Men devise elaborate schemes, embrace vain philosophies, and immerse themselves in religious formalities—all to avoid true obedience to the commands of God. The cry for repentance reverberates across time, but the hearts of many remain hardened. This article, examines the critical importance of repentance as the cornerstone of a meaningful relationship with God. Through this lens, we uncover the consequences of disobedience and the transformative power of submission.
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The Distortions of Disobedience
"They have chosen their own ways, and their soul delights in their abominations." (Isaiah 66:3, ESV)
Men engage in countless activities to avoid submitting to God’s commands. From grand religious events to impressive works of charity, these actions may outwardly seem noble but often conceal hearts estranged from God. Such efforts fail to address the essential call to repentance, reducing faith to mere performance. God’s command to preach repentance and lead sinners to salvation remains clear and unchanged. Yet, human pride and rebellion turn people away from this divine mandate, causing them to prioritize self-glorification over God’s glory.
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The Grief of God’s Heart
"Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains might quake at your presence." (Isaiah 64:1, ESV)
The widespread rejection of God’s way grieves His heart. The current generation—a "harlot generation"—has embraced rebellion and self-indulgence over humility and submission. God’s wrath looms over unrepentant souls, yet His mercy still extends a chance for transformation. True obedience begins with heartfelt repentance, clearing the way for genuine communion with the Creator.
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Repentance Revolution: The Gateway to Transformation
"Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." (Acts 3:19-20, ESV)
The repentance revolution is a clarion call to believers to confront their pride, rebellion, and self-deception. Repentance is not a one-time act but an ongoing process that requires deep introspection and cooperation with the Holy Spirit. When believers humble themselves and seek God’s forgiveness, they create an atmosphere where others can encounter His transformative power. Repentance clears the spiritual air, allowing the light of God to penetrate hearts blinded by sin.
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False Religion vs. True Submission
"Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 7:21, ESV)
Religious activities devoid of repentance are meaningless before God. Many build grand monuments of faith, labor tirelessly in ministry, and gain the applause of the world, yet fail to submit their hearts to God. Pride and self-promotion dominate such works, rendering them unacceptable to the Lord. True submission requires the abandonment of the god of self and a wholehearted return to God’s way.
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The Urgency of Intercession
"I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one." (Ezekiel 22:30, NIV)
The burden of intercession falls upon those who heed God’s call. In this dark and wicked generation, many are so entrenched in sin that they cannot even pray for themselves. God’s intercessors are tasked with crying out for mercy, standing in the gap for the lost and dying. Through the power of prayer, the Holy Spirit can penetrate hardened hearts, bringing redemption and hope.
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Summary
The message serves as a sobering reminder of humanity’s tendency to resist God’s commands. True obedience begins with repentance—a humbling acknowledgment of our sins and a heartfelt desire to align with God’s will. The distractions and deceptions of false religion cannot substitute for genuine submission. In this critical hour, believers are called to embrace a repentance revolution, clearing the way for God’s Spirit to work powerfully in their lives and the lives of others.
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Conclusion
Repentance is the foundation of a restored relationship with God. Without it, all our efforts are in vain. God’s call to repent and turn from pride and rebellion is not a burden but a path to freedom, peace, and eternal life. By surrendering to His Spirit, believers can experience personal transformation and become instruments of His mercy to a dying world.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart today. Are there areas where pride, rebellion, or complacency have taken root? Take time to seek God’s forgiveness and allow the Holy Spirit to search the depths of your soul. Embrace the call to intercession, standing in the gap for those who cannot pray for themselves. Let your life be a testimony of God’s redeeming power.
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Final Word of Encouragement
As you walk the path of repentance and submission, remember that God’s mercy is abundant and His love unfailing. He is faithful to forgive and restore all who humble themselves before Him. Be encouraged to persevere, knowing that your obedience brings glory to God and leads others to the truth. May you be a beacon of light in a dark world, reflecting the hope and transformation found in Christ.
