The Christians Responsibilities to Jesus Christ

Introduction:
We continue with our series on different obligations of Christians.  We are all familiar with obligations.  The most important obligations we have are to Jesus Christ.  In 2 Tim. 2:9-15 - Paul knew well his responsibilities.  It is readily apparent he had a deep sense of duty to accomplish all he could for Christ.  Do we have this same desire?  Why are we obligated to Christ?  How are we obligated to Him?
I.  Why are we obligated to Christ?
    A.  Because of salvation from past sins.
        1.  1 Jhn. 3:16; 4:9-10
        2.  1 Pet. 1:18-21 - saved through His blood.  This alone should be a motivating factor.
    B.  Heb. 3:1 - we as Christians are partakers of a heavenly calling. 
        1.  Gal. 3:26-27; Rom. 6:3-7 - have made a commitment to a new life!
        2.  Result?  Eph. 1:3 - Entitled to spiritual blessings:
            a.  1 Jhn. 5:11 - eternal life.  Only Christians have this hope!
            b.  Col. 1:14 - forgiveness of sin.
            c.  Eph. 1:7 - redemption. 
        3.  To obtain these we are obligated to be faithful!  Heb. 6:4-12; 2 Pet. 1:5-11
    C.  We made a covenant.  See Eph. 2:11-13 - been made near through Christ.  
II.  How are w obligated to Christ?
    A.  Must recognize the supreme authority of Christ!
        1.  Mt. 28:18 - ALL AUTHORITY given to Jesus in religious matters!
        2.  Christ imparts His authority through the Scriptures - 2 Pet. 1:3; 2 Tim. 3:16-17
            a.  All religious matters must be done according to His will!
            b.  1 Pet. 4:11; Gal. 1:8-9
        3.  Can't go by creed books & still be under Christ's authority!
    B.  Must demonstrate faith through obedience to His teachings.
        1.  In matters of worship - Jhn. 4:23-24.
        2.  Scriptural worship:  Acts 16:25; 2:42; 20:7; 2 Tim. 2:2; 2 Cor. 9:7
        3.  In matters of religious work:
            a.  Congregational:  2 Tim. 4:2; Eph. 4:16; Acts 11:27-30
            b.  Individual:  Jas. 1:26-27; Gal. 6:9-10
        4.  Go outside of Christ's teachings?  Unpleasing to God!  Obligated to His teachings.
    C.  Must demonstrate an example for Him!
        1.  1 Pet. 2:21-22 - must follow in Christ's example!
        2.  Scriptures that stress influence:  Mt. 5:13-16; Phil. 2:15; 1 Thess. 1:7; 1 Pet. 2:11-12
        3.  Influence easily overlooked by some.  Great damage can be done if not careful!
        4.  Mal. 4:2 - Christ the Sun of Righteousness.  Are you reflecting Him?
        5.  Others MUST see Him in our lives!

We owe our obedience to Jesus!

Are you fulfilling your obligations to Him?