Characteristics of Obedience

If you love Me, keep My commandments (John 14:15).

Obedience to the commandments of Jesus Christ is the test of our love for Him. But there are certain aspects to obedience which are found only in the life of the true believer. As these aspects are revealed in our obedience, so our true character is also revealed. In other words, when we understand what genuine obedience to the Lord is, and we measure our obedience by these aspects, we will also understand if we genuinely love the Lord like we think or say we do.

The 1st aspect of obedience to the commands of Christ is that of implicit obedience. In other words, genuine Christians will do what the Lord commands because it is the Lord who commands it, whether or not His commands agree with their interests or willingness. They keep Christ’s commands only when they do what He commands because it is He who commands it.

The 2nd aspect of obedience to the commandments of Christ is that of impartial obedience. In other words, genuine Christians will do whatever the Lord commands. There is no ‘picking and choosing’ with regard to obedience. 

The 3rd aspect of obedience to the commandments of Christ is that of cheerful obedience. In other words, genuine Christians will do what the Lord commands because it is a privilege to do so. Because they are the commandments of Him whom they love, because He is excellent and kind, gracious and merciful, compassionate and gentle, what He requires of them is for their benefit. As such, what benefits then should also cause them to rejoice in the benefit and the benefactor.

The 4th aspect of obedience to the commandments of Christ is that of willful obedience. In other words, genuine Christians will want to do what the Lord commands. It is not a matter of coercion or threatening with consequences that compels Christians to obey, but a willing desire to honor the Lord because they love Him and want to honor Him in their obedience.

The 5th and final aspect of obedience to the commandments of Christ is that of persevering obedience. In other words, genuine Christians will continue to be obedient to the Lord because there will be no end to their love for the Lord. Their attitude is, “If I really love Him, I can never cease to love Him, and if I never cease to love Him, I will never cease to obey Him.”

This is why Jesus spoke these words using a 3rd class conditional sentence - the obedience is uncertain of fulfillment, but is very likely throughout one’s future. Therefore, If you continue to love Me, you will continue to hold fast (fulfill) My commandments. Amen.

Pastor