You are the children of the Lord your God. (Deuteronomy 14:1)
In light of previous discussions regarding the sons of Belial and the dangers they pose to God’s people, it seems appropriate that Moses would now make the distinction between them and the sons of Elohim. Consequently, we are not to act as others do nor follow their customs and inclinations. Whether we admit it or not, every person will, consciously or subconsciously, follow someone’s rules. Those who reject the rule of God will default to a selfish and wicked inclination and, consequently, give allegiance to the Adversary — these are the sons of Belial. In other words, they will serve the Adversary whether they believe he exists of not. On the other hand, those who are regarded as children of God will, as John said, engage in righteousness and walk in obedience to their Father in heaven (1 John 3:10).
Most of us understand that, when growing up in our parent’s home, we were expected to abide by the house rules. I’m sure all of us have heard, at one time or the other, our parents say to us, “I don’t care what your friends’ parents let them do, we do things differently in this house.” The same is true in God’s House — if we are His we are to follow His house rules. Furthermore, just as it should be in our earthly families, the impetus for our obedience must be born out of love and a deeply rooted faith in the Almighty. In other words, relationship between our Heavenly Father and His children is based on a covenantal experience — a genuine love that produces obedience.
It may come as a surprise to some, but this notion is not exclusive to the New Testament or to Christianity. Many of the ancient rabbis taught that Israel were considered as the children of God ONLY when they conformed to His Will out of sincere love and devotion to Him. When they failed to follow that pattern, they forfeited the honor of being called His children. In short, bloodlines have never been the determining factor in identifying who the “sons of God” are — it has always been based on relationship. Thus it seems appropriate to conclude today’s thoughts with the statement of another esteemed Torah scholar who said: “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God” (Romans 8:14). Let us, then, be guided by His Spirit to walk in obedience to Him because we love Him.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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