Definition and Importance
Obedience to God's sending refers to the act of faithfully responding to God's call or command to go, speak, or act according to His divine will. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where individuals are often called by God to fulfill specific missions or tasks. Obedience in this context is not merely compliance but a demonstration of faith, trust, and submission to God's authority and purpose.

Biblical Examples

1. Abraham
Abraham is a quintessential example of obedience to God's sending. In Genesis 12:1-4 , God commands Abraham to leave his country, his people, and his father's household to go to a land that He would show him. Abraham's immediate response, "So Abram departed, as the LORD had directed him," exemplifies his unwavering faith and obedience to God's call, despite the uncertainties involved.

2. Moses
Moses' life is marked by a significant call to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. In Exodus 3:10 , God says, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Despite initial hesitations and feelings of inadequacy, Moses ultimately obeys God's sending, leading to the liberation of the Israelites and the establishment of the covenant at Sinai.

3. Isaiah
The prophet Isaiah's response to God's call is a profound example of obedience. In Isaiah 6:8 , after witnessing a vision of the Lord, Isaiah hears the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?" Isaiah responds, "Here am I. Send me!" This willingness to be sent underscores a readiness to serve God's purposes, regardless of the challenges.

4. Jonah
The account of Jonah presents a complex picture of obedience. Initially, Jonah resists God's command to go to Nineveh and preach against it (Jonah 1:1-3). However, after a series of divine interventions, Jonah ultimately obeys and delivers God's message, demonstrating that God's purposes prevail even amidst human reluctance.

5. The Apostles
In the New Testament, the apostles exemplify obedience to God's sending through the Great Commission. Jesus commands them in Matthew 28:19-20 , "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." The apostles' subsequent missionary journeys and the spread of the Gospel highlight their commitment to this divine mandate.

Theological Significance

Obedience to God's sending is a central theme in Scripture, reflecting the relationship between divine sovereignty and human agency. It underscores the belief that God actively involves His people in His redemptive plan for the world. This obedience is often accompanied by challenges, requiring faith, courage, and reliance on God's provision and guidance.

Practical Implications

For believers, obedience to God's sending involves discerning His will through prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It requires a willingness to step out in faith, often leaving comfort zones to fulfill God's purposes. This obedience is not only a personal journey but also a communal responsibility, as the Church collectively participates in God's mission to the world.

Conclusion

Obedience to God's sending is a dynamic and transformative aspect of the Christian faith, calling believers to align their lives with God's mission and purposes. Through biblical examples and theological reflection, it becomes evident that such obedience is integral to the life of faith, shaping the believer's identity and mission in the world.