What Motivates Us to Obey?

Obedience is becoming a rare virtue in culture today as it often carries negative baggage. Most people associate obedience with rules that we must follow grudgingly or discipline without any sense of joy. Among young people, there is a prevalent culture of anti-authoritarianism that rejects any notion of compliance.

Yet, when we explore Scripture and the words of Jesus, we see how motives for obedience can evolve from fear to worshipful devotion. The truth of John 14:23–24 serves as a biblical north star, revealing the heart behind true obedience:

“Jesus replied, ‘Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Whoever does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.’” (John 14:23–24 NIV)

Dr. Charles Keen, in his insightful article “Four Motivations for Obedience,” identifies a clear progression from immature compliance to godly devotion. Let’s walk through the four motivations Keen describes, always holding up this affectionate invitation from Jesus as our guiding light.

1. Fear of Consequences 

“The first and lowest motivation is the fear of consequences. This level of obedience is for the immature. There is some fruit from it, but little joy and an element of resentment.”

In both childhood and early faith, fear is often the first teacher. We obey because punishment looms. “Don’t touch the stove, or you’ll get burned.” As Christians, we might obey because of fear of judgment or consequences (e.g., Proverbs’ warnings).

There is some benefit at this level where people do behave and order is maintained, but it often yields compliance without love.  This level of obedience is marred by anxiety, stress, or subtle rebellion.

Using the fear-level as a starting point can be valuable for discipline and boundaries, but we should not dwell here. Without deeper motives, this obedience is brittle and discouraging.

2. Desire for Reward

“The second motivation … is the desire for reward. … Jesus did promise crowns and rewards, but it is wrong if it remains our major motivation in service.”

As we mature, we begin to see the benefits of obedience, which can include blessings, commendations, and spiritual growth. We obey because there is reward: perhaps we get approval from mentors, recognition among peers, and of course crowns in eternity (Revelation 4:10‑11).

This level is an upgrade where obedience is now more positive, hopeful, and future‑oriented. However, it still centers on “What’s in it for me?” This can foster pride or entitlement. While not necessarily wrong, it becomes problematic if it eclipses deeper motivations.

3. Good of Others

“The third motivation … is the good of others. Though this is not the highest … it is certainly above the fear or desire for reward.”

When our obedience grows beyond self-interest, we begin to care about how our actions affect others. Like the Good Samaritan, we obey to bless, not because we fear consequences or crave reward, but because we genuinely care. We serve in ministries, give sacrificially, and listen attentively. This stage reflects selfless love, echoing Jesus’ command to “love one another” (John 13:34).

This motivation builds community, compassion, and relational depth. However, there is still the risk that our focus on helping others can become socially driven. We need to be careful not to allow our obedience to be motivated only by public applause or social reform rather than spiritual transformation.

4. Love and Glory of God 

“The fourth motivation … is the glory of God. … When we are obedient for the glory of God, we are willing to pay any price … we are willing to do it without recognition or results.”

At this apex, obedience becomes pure worship. We obey because God is worthy. It is not about fear, reward, or people but it is about loving God and magnifying Him. This is a selfless and sacrificial type of obedience that is done quietly, faithfully, joyfully, and without fanfare. It shapes character and cultivates a spiritual legacy that transcends results.

What Should Motivate Us to Obey?

The four levels: fear of consequences, desire for reward, love for others, and devotion to God’s glory are progressive milestones on our spiritual journey. We may start with fear, but God invites us to grow from obedience that’s fearful, to self‑centered, to others‑focused, and finally to worshipful.

Jesus, in John 14:23–24, undergirds every step – with love being the litmus test. We do not obey God to earn His love or approval because God’s love is freely given through the work of Jesus. We achieve the highest level of obedience when we experience this unconditional love of God and respond in obedience to His commands as a form of personal worship.

We pray that each of you can move higher beyond fear and reward, beyond social approval, towards an obedience that reflects a deep personal love for Christ that seeks His glory!