If you love me, you will keep my commandments. John 14:15
In John 14:15, Jesus intertwines love and obedience, stating, “If you love me, keep my commands.” This profound verse encapsulates the essence of Christian discipleship, emphasizing the inseparable link between affection for Christ and adherence to His teachings.
Living in Obedience
Throughout the Bible, the theme of obedience as an expression of love towards God is recurrent. In 1 John 5:3, the apostle affirms, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.” This reaffirms that following Christ’s directives isn’t a duty but a joyful response rooted in love.
John 15:10 further emphasizes this union: “If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in His love.” This verse demonstrates that obedience is a pathway to deeper intimacy with Christ, mirroring His relationship with the Father.
Examples of Obedience
Notable Christians throughout history have echoed this sentiment. St. Augustine, a prominent 5th-century theologian, emphasized obedience when he said, “Love God and do as you please.” His point was that when one’s love for God is genuine, one’s desires align with God’s will, making obedience a natural expression of that love.
Mother Teresa exemplified obedience in her unwavering commitment to serving the poor and marginalized. Her life resonates with Christ’s teachings, demonstrating obedience in actions that reflect His compassion and selflessness.
Corrie Ten Boom, a Holocaust survivor, highlighted the significance of obedience in adversity: “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” Her resilience amidst the horrors of war and her steadfast faith in God’s guidance showcased obedience through trust, even in the darkest times.
However, obedience can be challenging in a world that often contradicts Christ’s teachings. Romans 12:2 encourages believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by renewing their minds. This verse underscores the need for deliberate obedience despite societal pressures or norms that deviate from Christ’s principles.
Personal Commitment
This is true in my life as well. Obedience to Jesus can be a moment-to-moment challenge. After decades of putting myself first and attempting to control my destiny, following Jesus is very difficult at times. It takes daily commitment – Bible reading, devotionals, prayer – and disobedience can still enter my life if I am not careful. Intentionally thinking and continual prayer are necessary for me to abide in Jesus and walk in His ways.
In essence, obedience to Jesus Christ isn’t merely a checklist of rules; it’s an expression of love and devotion. It’s living in such a way that our actions, words, and thoughts align with His teachings. When we love Christ, obedience becomes a natural response—a reflection of our deep affection for Him.
As Christians, the call to obedience is an ongoing journey—a daily commitment to walk in His ways, allowing His love to guide our actions and decisions. In doing so, we embody the essence of John 14:15, demonstrating our love for Him through obedient hearts and lives dedicated to following His example.
