What can we learn about love from Jesus' actions in John 14:31? The Text in Focus “but I do exactly what the Father has commanded Me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.” (John 14:31) Love Expressed Through Obedience • Jesus ties love directly to doing “exactly” what the Father commands. • Genuine love for God is measurable: it shows up in submission to His Word (John 15:9-10). • Our own love for Christ is proved the same way—by keeping His commands (1 John 5:3). Love That Moves, Not Merely Feels • “Rise, let us go” signals action. Love propels Jesus from the safety of an upper room toward Gethsemane and the cross (Philippians 2:8). • Biblical love is never stationary; it steps into God’s will even when that path leads through hardship. Love Demonstrated Publicly • Jesus wants “the world” to see His love for the Father. It is deliberately visible, not hidden. • Our obedience becomes a testimony that points others to the reality of God’s love (Matthew 5:16). Love Anchored in Relationship, Not Duty Alone • Jesus obeys “so that the world may know that I love the Father”—His obedience flows from affection, not cold compliance. • Likewise, our obedience is relational, rooted in gratitude for Christ’s own sacrificial love (Romans 5:8). Love That Strengthens the Community of Faith • By inviting the disciples to rise and go with Him, Jesus models leading others into faithful action. • True love encourages fellow believers to walk the same obedient path (Hebrews 10:24). Practical Takeaways for Today – Measure love by obedience: What God commands, we perform. – Move when God says “go,” trusting His plan even when it costs. – Let obedience be public, pointing neighbors to the Father’s love. – Guard a warm heart; actions flow best from affection, not mere duty. – Spur one another on—love is contagious when lived out together. |