What does "keeping God's commandments" mean in today's Christian life? Scripture Focus • 1 Corinthians 7:19 – “Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commandments is what matters.” • Paul is reminding believers that outward marks or labels do not define standing with God; obedience from the heart does. What “Keeping” Means • The Greek tēréō carries the sense of guarding, watching over, treasuring. • It pictures continuous, careful obedience, not a one-time act. • Jesus uses the same verb: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Which Commandments? • Moral law summed up in the two great commands—love God, love neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). • The clear directives of Christ and the apostles (e.g., honesty, sexual purity, forgiveness, generosity, faithfulness). • The Ten Commandments remain a moral framework (Romans 13:8-10). • Ceremonial and civil laws tied to old-covenant Israel were fulfilled in Christ; they teach principles but are not binding rituals (Colossians 2:16-17). Obedience and Grace Together • Salvation is “by grace…not from works” (Ephesians 2:8-9), yet we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works” (v. 10). • Faith that saves also works through love (Galatians 5:6). • Obedience proves genuine relationship: “We know that we have come to know Him if we keep His commandments” (1 John 2:3). Why It Matters Today • Demonstrates love for Christ—obedience is love in action. • Displays the gospel’s transforming power to a watching world (Matthew 5:16). • Protects us from sin’s damage and leads to fullness of joy (John 15:10-11). • Builds unity in the church when we all submit to the same Lord (Ephesians 4:1-3). Practical Expressions • Daily Scripture intake—know what He commands. • Quick obedience in small matters; faithfulness grows muscles for bigger steps. • Integrity at work and school—truth-telling, diligence, fairness. • Sexual holiness in thought and conduct (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). • Active love: serving the poor, forgiving offenders, encouraging believers (James 1:27; Ephesians 4:32). • Stewardship—honoring God with money, time, talents (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). • Consistent worship and fellowship; the local church is the training ground for obedience (Hebrews 10:24-25). Power to Obey • The Holy Spirit writes the law on our hearts and empowers us to walk it out (Ezekiel 36:27; Galatians 5:16). • Confession and repentance restore fellowship when we fail (1 John 1:9). • God’s promises supply motivation and strength: “His commands are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3) because His yoke is easy and His burden light (Matthew 11:30). Related Passages for Further Reflection |
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