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By Dean Kelly

“Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10‬:37). This is found at the conclusion of the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus was showing who a “neighbor” is.

But, within that phrase “Go and do likewise”, is a crucial aspect of Christianity. Christianity is not a stagnant, passive lifestyle. It demands for us to “do.” It does not simply involve a “mental-assent” that God is, and that Jesus is His Son. 

James puts it this way, “speaking of faith that does not act,” But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? “James‬ 2‬:18‬-20‬.

Jesus states it in this manner,” “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.”

Matthew‬ 7‬:21‬. He follows with the wise (hears and obeys) and foolish (hears and doesn’t obey) builders.

I would say that Christian is an “active noun.” 2 Thessalonians 1:8 states that God’s vengeance is on those who do not obey the gospel. We must obey the gospel to become a Christian. We must obey God in all of our life.

“Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him, “Hebrews‬ 5‬:8‬-9‬. His obedience led Him to the cross. Our obedience will lead us to His cross, as we take up our cross and follow Him (Luke 9:23).

Dean Kelly is minister at Highland Home Church of Christ.