Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them. John 14:21
Obeying Christ’s commands is not optional for those who want to experience eternal life with God (3:36; 14:21, 23; 15:8-10, 13-14; Lk 6:46-49; Jas 1:22; 2Pe 1:5-11, 1Jn 2:3-6). Obedience to Christ, though never perfect in this life, must still be wholehearted and genuine. It is an essential aspect of our faith in him, and it is a reflection of true love for him (vv. 15, 21, 23-24 and Mt 7:21). Love is the greatest and only effective motivation for obeying Christ’s commands. Trying to follow the commands without a deep love for Christ is legalism (i.e., following the details of the law without a true commitment to the spirit and purposes behind it), which will lead to failure and frustration. To the person who loves Christ and strives to obey his commands consistently, Christ promises a special love, grace (i.e., unearned favor and help) and his deepest inner presence (cf. v. 23). Love and obedience always go together when it comes to genuine commitment to Christ. If there is genuine love for the Lord, there will be loving obedience.
Today’s Bible Readings:
Ezekiel 33-34, Hebrews 13, Psalm 115:1-18 and Proverbs 27:21-22
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