The word 'lord' in Greek refers to supremacy. A 'lord' was an owner of property and the master of people, somebody who had the right to decide and control. Used as a title, 'Lord' recognised the person as being in authority, and gave a solemn responsibility to serve and obey. The Bible writers also use 'Lord' as a name of God, which greatly heightens our obligation to do what He says today.
This link between words and actions is a fundamental part of God's economy. Words matter, because when God speaks - things happen. So Jesus' question in this verse goes to the roots of our human duplicity. We may say that we honour and serve our Master; but if we ignore His commands, disobey His laws, obstruct His plans and frustrate His purpose ... what kind of words are we saying: surely they are lies. We might think that we mean them but excuse our disobedience as 'weakness' when we are not very good at the action part. But that is only another way of saying that we do not really believe that Jesus is Lord.
So, agreeing with the Lord is not enough. Failure to take action demonstrates that our agreement is worthless. But when we obey, our actions validate our beliefs. More than that, obedience enables the Lord to validate our trust because His words always bring righteousness to those who do them. Alas, busy people may confuse activity with godliness. The question to ask is not, "Am I doing what I think is right?" but, "Am I obeying the Lord's words as written in the Bible?" That is why we need a time to be quiet before the Lord each day, to receive His words, agree with them, confess disobedience, and seek His help as we determine to be obedient. That kind of integrated lifestyle brings a gentle confidence into the home and workplace, as Jesus validates our obedience with His power.
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