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Basic Commands of Christ Jesus ordered many things but we can group them
under seven basic commands. In Acts Repent, believe, and receive the Holy Spirit (conversion,
regeneration), Mark 1:15; John Be baptized and live the new life it initiates, initiating ongoing
transformation, Matthew 28:18-20; Romans 6:1-14 Love God,
neighbor, fellow disciples, the needy in a practical way and enemies
(forgive), Matthew 22:36-40; John 13:34-35, Luke 10:25-37; Matthew 5:43-48 Break bread (Communion, related to all that we do to worship),
Matthew 26:26-28; John Pray (private
and family devotions, intercession and spiritual warfare), John Give (stewardship
of our time, treasure and talents), Luke Make disciples (witness for Christ, shepherd, apply the Word, train
leaders, send missionaries), Matthew 28:18-20 The commands and their corresponding duties are
like links in a chain. A church is no stronger than its weakest link; we
develop obedience to all of the commands. An Asian tribe
compares Jesus’ commands to an oxcart wheel. Jesus is the hub; His basic commands
are seven spokes. If a church neglects one or more commands their spokes
shrink, the wheel is no longer round; the oxen strain in vain to pull the
loaded cart. We also obey Jesus when we observe His
apostles’ commands. They wrote with His inspired authority. The
commands in their letters, however, are not basic in the same
way--they are not the foundation or 'basement floor' of the building. They
belong to the second story and on up, along with all other biblical doctrine;
we will spend all eternity learning more about God. They are for
leaders and believers already baptized and under a church's care. Obeying Jesus is a massive doctrine in Scripture. Nothing is more basic
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