What is a Command?
When it comes to scripture we rarely use the word command, but we tend to focus on the word commandment, which means something commanded. We all are familiar with the word commandment, as in the Ten Commandments. The word command means to order, the ability to control and to govern. God’s original plan of government was the Ten Commandments. They were to help Israel know how to serve their God.
I want to focus on a few New Testament commandments. Keep in mind that God is sovereign, and in control. His commands are for our benefit, they are not to harm us or hold us back. Although sometimes the flesh gets in the way and causes conflict, Jesus gives us an incentive, in John 15:14. “You are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” Friendship with Jesus is dependent on obeying his commands. After all, in Isaiah 55:4, he is a commander. He has the authority to order us, to govern us and he has the right (authority) to control our lives.
We, on the other hand, can choose whether we will obey or disobey. If we obey, then we will reap the benefits of obedience. Should we choose to disobey we will reap the consequences. How often do we blame God, or the enemy or another person for consequences that we have brought on ourselves due to the lack of obedience?
In Ephesians chapter 6, there are several commands designed to help us be more effective in spiritual warfare.
1. Be strong in the Lord….
2. Be strong in the power of His might….
3. Put on the whole armor of God….
4. Stand….
5. Gird your waist with truth….
6. Put on the breastplate of righteousness….
7. Have the Gospel of peace on your feet….
8. Take the shield of faith….
9. Take the helmet of salvation….
10. Take the sword of the spirit….
11. Pray always….in the spirit….
12. Watch with all perseverance….
2. Be strong in the power of His might….
3. Put on the whole armor of God….
4. Stand….
5. Gird your waist with truth….
6. Put on the breastplate of righteousness….
7. Have the Gospel of peace on your feet….
8. Take the shield of faith….
9. Take the helmet of salvation….
10. Take the sword of the spirit….
11. Pray always….in the spirit….
12. Watch with all perseverance….
Did you ever think of these in terms of commands, i.e. orders? See if you can find other commands in the New Testament, and share them with me.
Pastor Rosita
