Love for Jesus Should Motivate Us to Obey Him
Will we listen to Jesus?
Many people claim to love Jesus. But if we really love Him, shouldn’t it influence our actions? Jesus spoke of those who love Him.
“If you love Me, keep My commandments. (John 14:15)
Those who truly love Jesus will obey Him. If we do not obey Him, then we demonstrate that we do not really love Him.
I’m reminded of the church of Ephesus. They were doing many things right. But, they had a problem, and Jesus told them what the problem was.
Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent. (Revelation 2:4-5)
The word “left” in Greek could also be used for divorce - so the picture is this church had abandoned Jesus, the One they supposedly loved.
While they are commended for doing many things right (Revelation 2:2-3, 6), they are rebuked for their actions not being motivated by love. They were not doing right because they loved Jesus. Because of that, they needed to repent.
It is essential to obey Jesus and follow His Word - for we will be judged by it (John 12:48).
It is equally as important that our motivation behind obeying the Lord be right as well. We must obey the Lord because we love Him.