Inward obedience was sometimes equated with holiness by John Wesley. External obedience degenerates into performance and legalism. It wants the “reward of recognition” without inner heart allegiance. The only allegiance such a person has is to himself. Inward obedience comes from examined intentions. When practiced over a lifetime they lead to the development of holy character. Without inward obedience there is no holiness.
“Return to the LORD your God and obey Him with all your heart and soul according to all that I command you today…” Deuteronomy 30:2 (NASB)
