Obeying the Gospel: More Than Hearing the Message
The Bible speaks plainly about the importance of obeying the gospel. It is a phrase that appears only a few times in Scripture, yet it carries eternal weight. Sadly, it is not often taught as its own subject, but the Word of God makes it clear: the gospel is not just to be heard — it is to be obeyed.
The Gospel Command
The word obey comes from the Greek hupakouō, meaning “to hear under, to heed, to submit.” In other words, the gospel is not just information to consider, but a command to respond to.
Acts 17:30 says: “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.” The gospel is God’s call, and our response determines our eternal destiny.
Where the Bible Speaks of Obeying the Gospel
There are three direct mentions:
Romans 10:16 – “But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?”
2 Thessalonians 1:8 – “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:”
1 Peter 4:17 – “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?”
Each passage shows that the gospel is not simply believed with the mind but obeyed with the life.
How Does One Obey the Gospel?
To obey the gospel is to submit to its message — the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1–4).
Repentance – Turning from sin in obedience to God’s call (Luke 13:3).
Faith in Christ – Trusting His finished work, not our own righteousness (Romans 10:9–10).
Identification with Christ – Baptism pictures obedience to His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3–5).
Ongoing Obedience – Living daily in submission to Christ (Romans 6:17).
The Warning and the Promise
The Bible is clear:
Warning – Judgment awaits those who obey not the gospel (2 Thessalonians 1:8).
Promise – Eternal life is given to those who believe and obey (Romans 10:13).
The gospel demands more than acknowledgment. It demands obedience.
Final Thought
The question is not just, “Have I heard the gospel?” but “Have I obeyed the gospel?” The difference is eternal. Hearing brings responsibility; obedience brings salvation and peace.
Friend, don’t only listen to the message — submit to it. Trust Christ, obey His call, and walk in newness of life.