It seems in the opening paragraphs you are saying that Christian testimony, baptism and church membership is equivalent to walking in obedience to Christ? If so, that is a very narrow definition of obedience.

1Cor. 11:29 says that whoever eats or drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment. Unless you think “discerning the body” means testimony, baptism and church membership you are guilty of proof-texting.

In Scripture it’s unequivocally assumed that one’s union with Christ and His Church will be demonstrated in baptism (see Rom 6:3-4; Col 2:12; Eph 4:5), followed by membership in a local church and consequent communion with that church in the Lord’s Supper. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper serve respectively as the initiating and continuing acts of Christian faith.
The three verses you highlight all reference union with Christ. You add and His Church. I am not saying you don’t have some logical reason for doing so, but the verses you cite don’t say that.

Thanks, Russell. I do hope it’s more help than “humbug” (thought, admittedly, that can be fun, too). Hopefully, it helps us enjoy what the Lord gives us (1 Tim 6:17), without losing the truth about Him and His Gospel in the process.

Though any persecution which may come is “your opportunity to bear witness” (Luke 21:13). And He’ll always tell us what to say (vv. 14-15) – I think that’s why so many martyrs have had such powerful and poignant final words despite being in such a terrifying position. The grace of Christ’s Spirit.

Still… they’ll have to find me in your shelter first! 🙂