So goes the title of a classic devotional book by William Law, an 18th century Anglican priest. Law challenges those of us who claim to follow Jesus not just to devout living, but to renewed commitment to serving Christ, reading the Scriptures, prayer, worship and service. It’s a heavy read, running counter to the breezy faith I’m often guilty of practicing.

Law takes his inspiration from Jesus, who explained this way of living to his disciples. Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them…Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 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.

As disciples of Jesus we’re called to keep his commands. So, what did he command?

We find multiple directives from the mouth of Jesus. A few immediately come to mind. Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. Love your neighbor as yourself. Honor God’s law. Follow me. Make disciples. Love your enemies.

One cannot remain flippant in the face of such injunctions. I can either ignore them, or attempt to act in accordance. If I shrug off the commands of Jesus I’ll probably be ok. God won’t strike me dead. But I’ll never know what I’ve missed.

By understanding and keeping his commands I open my life to the great promises of God—including the love of the Father and the active work of Jesus in my life.

John 14 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Motoki Tonn