Benedict's Theory Of Obedience

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Benedict lived in the 16th century from 480 – 547 in Italy (Nursia) at the time when the great Roman Empire was crumbling. This period was stuffed with wars and paganism. Benedict left his native land to the city of Rome to pursue his education, but paganism in the city disgusted him and he desist from the world to embrace a life of solitude. His life style came to the noticed of many people. Some monks joined him, and he then established twelve monasteries with twelve monks each. He later abandon his monastery due to jealousy and went up the mountain of Cassino where he lived till his death in 547 AD. Benedict thought that establishing rules will act as a guide for the monks to advance in holiness and for the smooth running of the monastery. …show more content…

They respond to the superiors order as though there were from God. (Luke 10:16,) “Anyone who listens to you listens to me.” Instant response to command and the ability to giving up ones will, discontinuing work at the sound of the bell as a result of obedience, and this portrays the fear of God. Obedience will be acceptable to God and agreeable to man if done without complaining, Luke warmness, grumbling, and without delay. Obedience is motivated by love because their desire is to seek and do the will of God, in imitation of the master they are serving. (John 6:38). Furthermore, obedience must be done freely and in a joyful spirit. St. Paul in 2cor 9:7 says, “God loves a cheerful …show more content…

Jesus taught by words and examples so too does Benedict envisage for himself and his followers. Benedict’s Spiritual tools, emphasized, Love of God, Love of neighbor and love of self. Jesus build an intimate relationship with His Father throughout His ministry. (MK6:12)-“He spend the whole night in pray.” (Mk 5:29-32)-Jesus showed love to sinners. Jesus’ whole ministry depicts love Of God, love of neighbor and love of self. Benedict learn from Jesus’ preaching. (Matt 25:31-40) that Jesus is present in everyone (neighbor). Pope Benedict in his encyclical behold the pierce one wrote that being a Christian involves ones neighbor. Judgement will be based on these actions. Jesus is master of the laws and a perfect fulfillment of the law. (MK 2:28) For Benedict, these spiritual tools is in line with what Christ lived and preached because He obeyed the laws of His

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