31/05/2026
John 14:15
“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (KJV)
Jesus spoke these words to His disciples shortly before going to the cross. He was preparing them for His departure and teaching them what genuine love for Him looks like. Many people say they love Jesus, but Jesus teaches that true love is demonstrated through obedience.
Love is not merely a feeling; it is a commitment that is expressed through action.
1. Love for Jesus Must Be Genuine
Jesus did not say, “If you fear Me” or “If you know Me.” He said, “If you love Me.”
Christianity is first and foremost a relationship with Christ. God desires our hearts before our service.
When we truly love Jesus:
We desire His presence.
We delight in His Word.
We seek to please Him.
We long to become more like Him.
The question is not merely, “Do you attend church?” but “Do you love Jesus?”
Love Produces Obedience
Jesus connected love and obedience together.
Obedience is the evidence of our love for Christ. We do not obey to earn His love; we obey because we love Him.
A child who loves a parent desires to honor them. In the same way, believers who love Jesus desire to obey His commands.
His commands include:
Loving God wholeheartedly.
Loving our neighbors.
Forgiving those who hurt us.
Living holy lives.
Sharing the Gospel.
True love for Christ is seen in everyday obedience.
Obedience Brings Blessing
God always honors obedience.
Throughout Scripture, those who obeyed God experienced His favor:
Noah obeyed and was saved from the flood.
Abraham obeyed and became the father of many nations.
Peter obeyed Jesus and witnessed miracles.
Obedience may not always be easy, but it always leads to God's purpose and blessing.
The Holy Spirit Helps Us Obey
Just after this verse, Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit.
We cannot obey God in our own strength. The Holy Spirit empowers us to:
Resist temptation.
Walk in holiness.
Love others.
Remain faithful.
God never commands us to do something without giving us the grace and power to accomplish it.
Jesus is still asking the same question today: “Do you love Me?”
If we truly love Him:
We will trust Him.
We will follow Him.
We will obey Him.
Love that does not lead to obedience is incomplete. Genuine love for Christ is revealed through a life surrendered to His will.