Moment With The Master
“At the Feet of the Master”
Categories: Moment With The MasterBut God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. (Romans 6:17)
The Greek word, hupakuo (obey) means to listen, to attend, and so to submit or obey. Literally, the word means “to hear under.” Jesus used this same word in John 10:27: "My sheep hear My voice (listen submissively), and I know them, and they follow Me (they walk beside me). (John 10:27) The imagery is of one sitting at the feet of a master with the intent to follow. These verses imply a choice was made of one master over another.
Consider the two potential paths. One may yield to the motions of either “sin unto death” or of “obedience unto righteousness”. There is no middle course. We are enlisted in one or the other. One is mistaken if he thinks this is a choice to be trifled with! Sin can become a grievous taskmaster. This master comes in various forms- love of money, pride, love of pleasure, or selfish ambitions. The result is degradation of the soul.
The apostle is thankful that his readers have chosen righteousness over sin. They have obeyed a “mold of doctrine” delivered to them. He refers them back to the time of baptism when they buried the sinful man and committed their lives to Jesus. Christ has won their hearts. In this new life true freedom is realized. Every duty, every area of life is patterned after the life of Christ. Every action guided by the motive of love.
The choice of yielding to righteousness is met with thanksgiving to God. There is no denial that sin brings its pleasure, but the difference between sin and righteousness is as different as darkness is to light. Thank God they chose Jesus! He is the only one that offers hope now and forever.
George Slover
