[jkl1122]

Romans 6:17-18 teaches that we must be obedient before we are freed from sin. Works alone accomplish nothing, but faith without works accomplishes the same thing. Obedience to the Gospel of Christ is absolutely necessary in order to become a child of God.

[SoConPubbie]

Obedience to the Gospel of Christ is absolutely necessary in order to become a child of God.

This is true, however, taken in context, Paul is talking about salvation by faith so the only obedience that a sinner can actually do is to Repent and Believe where repentence is the acknowledging our total sinfulness and helplessness and total need of God.

Romans 6:17-18

17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.