How does 1 Thessalonians 4:2 connect with John 14:15 about keeping commandments? Setting the Scene • 1 Thessalonians 4:2: “For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.” • John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” What Paul Means by “Instructions” • “Instructions” translates a military term for marching orders—clear, binding directives. • They are “by the authority of the Lord Jesus,” so Paul is not offering suggestions; he is transmitting Jesus’ own commands. • Thus, obedience to apostolic teaching = obedience to Christ Himself (see Luke 10:16). Jesus’ Call to Loving Obedience • John 14:15 roots command-keeping in love, not legalism. • Love for Jesus is proven genuine when it leads to concrete, daily obedience (cf. 1 John 2:3-5; 5:3). • The Spirit empowers this love-driven obedience (John 14:16-17). How the Two Texts Merge • Same Source: Both passages trace the commands back to Jesus. • Same Motive: Love (John 14:15) is what moves believers to “walk and please God” (1 Thessalonians 4:1-2). • Same Outcome: A life that visibly aligns with the will of God, confirming authentic faith (James 2:17-18). Additional Witness from Scripture • Matthew 28:20 — the Great Commission links disciple-making with “teaching them to obey.” • Romans 6:17-18 — believers are freed from sin “because you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching.” • 1 John 3:24 — “The one who keeps His commandments remains in Him.” Practical Takeaways for Today • See apostolic teaching in the New Testament as Jesus speaking with full authority. • Let love, not mere duty, fuel obedience—His commandments are “not burdensome” (1 John 5:3). • Measure spiritual growth by increasing conformity to Christ’s instructions. • Rely on the Holy Spirit for strength to obey, knowing obedience pleases God and confirms our love for His Son. |
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