Definition of Love as Obedience
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In the Christian tradition, love is often understood not merely as an emotion or feeling but as an active expression of obedience to God's commandments. This concept is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, where love and obedience are frequently intertwined.

Biblical Foundation

The connection between love and obedience is prominently featured in the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, Jesus explicitly links love for Him with obedience to His commands: "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). This statement underscores the idea that genuine love for Christ is demonstrated through adherence to His teachings.

Further emphasizing this relationship, Jesus reiterates, "Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me. The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and reveal Myself to him" (John 14:21). Here, love is portrayed as a reciprocal relationship, initiated by obedience and resulting in a deeper communion with God.

Old Testament Context

The concept of love as obedience is not limited to the New Testament. In the Old Testament, love for God is similarly expressed through obedience to His laws. Deuteronomy 6:5 commands, "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" . This command is immediately followed by instructions to keep God's commandments, indicating that love for God is manifested through faithful observance of His decrees.

The Shema, a central declaration of the Jewish faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, encapsulates this principle by linking love for God with the diligent teaching and practice of His commandments. This passage has been foundational in understanding the covenant relationship between God and His people, where love is expressed through obedience.

Apostolic Teachings

The apostolic writings continue to affirm the connection between love and obedience. The Apostle John, in his first epistle, writes, "By this we can be sure that we have come to know Him: if we keep His commandments. If anyone says, 'I know Him,' but does not keep His commandments, he is a liar, and the truth is not in him" (1 John 2:3-4). This passage highlights the inseparability of knowing God, loving Him, and obeying His commands.

Moreover, John further states, "For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome" (1 John 5:3). Here, love is defined as the keeping of God's commandments, and such obedience is portrayed as a natural and joyful response to God's love.

Practical Implications

The understanding of love as obedience has profound implications for Christian living. It calls believers to a life of active faith, where love is demonstrated through actions that align with God's will. This perspective challenges the notion of love as merely sentimental, emphasizing instead a commitment to living according to God's standards.

In the Christian community, this principle fosters a culture of accountability and mutual encouragement, as believers seek to support one another in their walk of obedience. It also serves as a guiding framework for ethical decision-making, where love for God and neighbor is expressed through actions that reflect God's commandments.

Conclusion

The biblical portrayal of love as obedience presents a holistic view of love that encompasses both devotion to God and ethical conduct. It invites believers to a deeper understanding of love as an active, obedient response to God's love and grace.
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