Respect for divine ordinances is a fundamental aspect of biblical teaching, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the commands and decrees set forth by God. These ordinances are seen as expressions of God's will and are integral to maintaining a covenant relationship with Him. Throughout Scripture, the faithful are called to honor and obey these divine instructions as a demonstration of their reverence and commitment to God.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, divine ordinances are often associated with the Law given to Moses on Mount Sinai. These laws encompass moral, ceremonial, and civil aspects of life for the Israelites. The Ten Commandments, as recorded in Exodus 20:1-17, serve as a foundational summary of God's moral expectations. The Israelites were repeatedly reminded of the importance of observing these commandments as a sign of their covenant with God. In Deuteronomy 6:1-2 , it is written, "These are the commandments and statutes and ordinances that the LORD your God has instructed me to teach you to follow in the land that you are about to enter and possess, so that you and your children and grandchildren may fear the LORD your God all the days of your lives by keeping all His statutes and commandments that I give you, and so that your days may be prolonged."

The ceremonial laws, including the sacrificial system and festivals, were also divine ordinances meant to guide the Israelites in their worship and relationship with God. Leviticus 18:4-5 states, "You are to practice My judgments and keep My statutes by walking in them. I am the LORD your God. Keep My statutes and My judgments, for the man who does these things will live by them. I am the LORD."

New Testament Continuation

In the New Testament, respect for divine ordinances continues to be emphasized, though the focus shifts from the ceremonial law to the moral and ethical teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus affirmed the importance of the Law, stating in Matthew 5:17-18 , "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished."

The apostles also reinforced the necessity of respecting divine ordinances. In Romans 13:1-2 , Paul writes, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage highlights the broader principle of respecting God's established order, including civil authorities.

The Role of the Church

The early church recognized the importance of divine ordinances in the life of believers. The sacraments, such as baptism and the Lord's Supper, are seen as ordinances instituted by Christ Himself. In Matthew 28:19-20 , Jesus commands, "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. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

The Lord's Supper, as described in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 , is another ordinance that believers are instructed to observe: "For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, 'This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes."

Conclusion

Respect for divine ordinances is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, reflecting a believer's dedication to living according to God's will. By honoring these ordinances, Christians demonstrate their commitment to the teachings of Scripture and their desire to maintain a faithful relationship with God.