Dear friends, brothers, and sisters in Christ, today we explore a powerful theme in scripture: the relationship between love and obedience. We will focus on the scriptures of John 14:15, 21, 23-24, I John 5:3, and II John 1:6.
These verses revolve around the same theme and message—our love for God is intrinsically connected to obeying His commandments. We are given clear instructions on expressing our love for our Heavenly Father and promised the blessings that come with it.
Let us first consider the book of John, written by the Apostle John, who was one of Jesus' closest disciples. John 14:15, 21, 23-24 reads:
15 If you love me, keep my commandments. 21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man loves me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. 24 He that loveth me keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.
These passages emphasize that our love for God is demonstrated through our obedience to His commandments. When we keep His commandments, we show our love for Him and are also promised His love in return, manifested through His presence in our lives. In today's world, this truth remains the same. Our passion and commitment to God are made evident by how we live our lives in adherence to His teachings. When we actively strive to follow God's commandments, we send a clear message that our love for Him is genuine, and in return, we feel His love through abundant blessings and His presence in our lives. Now, let us examine I John 5:3, which reads: ``` 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
Here, the Apostle John reiterates the importance of obedience as an expression of our love for God. He also reminds us that God's commandments are not meant to be burdensome. On the contrary, they are given for our good.
Indeed, in our everyday lives, we may sometimes find it challenging to stay obedient to God's word, especially when we face trials or the temptations of worldly pleasures. However, when anchored in our faith, we can find strength and resilience, even in difficult times. Our loving obedience to God deepens our relationship and brings peace and contentment, no matter the circumstances.
Lastly, let's look at II John 1:6:
6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it. ```
This verse echoes the sentiment of the previous scriptures: love for God is demonstrated through walking in His commandments. It is a continuous journey.
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