"For the entire Law is fulfilled in in this one word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."—Gal 5:14

Is precision obedience necessary for God to save you?

Added on by Lucas Necessary.

Sometimes we can start trying to make precepts (rules) where God gave us instead broader principles. Recently I saw a discussion on how Saul disobeyed God, and I believe it was accurately discerned that as His children, walking in His instruction to the utmost of our ability is wise. Personally, I also find it refreshing.

It did get me thinking about the heart, and matters of it. In 2 Chronicles 29-31, some interesting things happen. The Chronicler tells us outright that the Israelites did not "obey," and by "obey," perhaps I mean they did not obey with precision. They decided to do their own thing. In fact, in 30:18, we see that a majority of the people "ate the Passover otherwise than as prescribed."

But we also see that they "humbled themselves" (11) and that "the priests and the Levites were ashamed." (15) Hezekiah seemed to recognize this, being of the same good heart, and prayed, "“May the good LORD pardon everyone who sets his heart to seek God, the LORD, the God of his fathers, even though not according to the sanctuary’s rules of cleanness.” (18-19)

In response to this error, "the LORD heard Hezekiah and healed the people." (20)

This ends up being a time of rejoicing, or coming back to God, though a bit wrong in some cases (not quite the best month, but exceptions were allowed; not quite as pure as one was supposed to be, yet God showed grace), with encouraging words and spiritual growth.

It reminds me that Nabad and Abihu were struck down, but Eleazar and Ithamar were spared immediately afterward, though they did contrary to what was instructed. It reminds me that mercy may triumph over judgment, and that the Mercy Seat was above the Ark of the Covenant. It gives me hope that, when I try to obey correctly, and mess up, that perhaps God will not consider my error in attempting to walk with Him as enough to label me as "disobedient," but rather, perhaps, imperfect in my attempt.

I expect that I will have a better understanding once I have my own children. In the meantime, I hope that I am found to be a good laborer, doing so out of love of all that I have been blessed with, having the obedience of faith.