How does Exodus 12:50 connect with Jesus' teachings on obedience in John 14:15? Setting the Context Exodus 12 records Israel’s deliverance through the first Passover, while John 14 captures Jesus’ final words before the cross. Both passages place obedience at the heart of covenant relationship. Key Texts • Exodus 12:50: “Then all the Israelites did this; they did just as the LORD commanded Moses and Aaron.” • John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Obedience in Exodus • The Passover instructions were precise—every detail mattered (Exodus 12:5–11, 46). • Israel “did just as the LORD commanded,” demonstrating trust in God’s word. • Obedience resulted in protection from judgment (Exodus 12:13) and marked the beginning of freedom (Exodus 12:51). Obedience in the Teachings of Jesus • Jesus ties love and obedience together: love proves itself through action (John 14:21, 23). • Keeping His commands invites divine presence—“We will come to him and make Our home with him” (John 14:23). • Like Passover, the cross would establish a new covenant sealed by obedient faith (Luke 22:20). Connecting the Two Passages 1. Same Source of Authority • Exodus: “the LORD commanded.” • John: Jesus speaks with the LORD’s authority (John 10:30). 2. External Act, Inner Allegiance • Israel’s outward obedience expressed covenant loyalty. • Believers’ obedience springs from love for Christ. 3. Deliverance Linked to Obedience • Passover obedience led to physical salvation. • Obedience to Jesus reflects acceptance of His redemptive work (Hebrews 5:9). 4. Community Response • “All the Israelites did this” (corporate obedience). • Jesus anticipates a loving, obedient community that will bear witness (John 13:34–35). Additional Scriptural Echoes • Deuteronomy 5:33—“Walk in all the way that the LORD your God has commanded you.” • 1 Samuel 15:22—“To obey is better than sacrifice.” • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • 1 John 2:3–6—Knowing God is verified by keeping His commands. Living Out Obedience Today • Receive God’s Word as authoritative and good, just as Israel accepted Moses’ instructions. • Let love for Christ motivate every act of obedience—rules become relationship-driven. • Expect God’s presence and protection when walking in His commands. • Encourage collective faithfulness; obedience is strengthened within community. |
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