We come to a lengthy teaching of Christ to his disciples. He begins with warning his disciples, switches to warning religious leaders, then gives a warning to the world at large (Mathew 23).
Peter tells us that judgment begins with the house of God, “and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (2 Peter 4:17).
The Psalmist wrote “Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling (Psalm 2:11). Paul wrote to the Philippians, “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed--not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence--continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose (Philippians 2:12-13).
Taking our faith seriously will result in a changed life.
