Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
One of the things I appreciate most about God’s creation is its logical nature. Everything of a material nature works according to the laws of physics. These laws have been in place since the beginning of time. The history of science has been one of discovering God’s laws in nature. Once understood, there is a comforting predictability about the nature of the physical world.
In verses twenty-three and twenty-four, Jesus explains another “law” if you will. It is a truism, a principle. He begins, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching.” He continues with, “Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching.” Then he adds that these words come directly from the Father.
Why does he tell us this? Why is it important?
The Pharisees plot to murder Jesus even though they represent God on earth. They are an example of rationalizing what we want to be true.
Jesus is very straight forward. He speaks the truth. Perhaps he wants us to see ourselves clearly, as he Himself sees us. Possibly he wants us to appreciate his love for us. As Pastor Rich points out in his comment on “Moving In,” “It is remarkable that He loves us and desires us so much that He will reside in a sinful person such as myself.”
Let’s Discuss: Why do you think Jesus is making such a point out of how obeying his teachings is related to loving him?
Love desires to please the other person. Obedience pleases God. Even in the OT sacrificial system to obey was better than sacrifice. Thus, if we obey God because we want to please Him, it is a demonstration of our love for Him.
Thanks Rich! Isn’t it amazing that we have a God who actually cares whether we love Him or not?
Thank you Rich I’m learning so much about love. Love desires to please the other person.