Why are God's commandments described as "not burdensome" in 1 John 5:3? 1 John 5:3—The Verse “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.” What “Burdensome” Means - The Greek barús points to something heavy, weighty, oppressive. - John insists God’s commands never fit that description for His children. Why Obedience Feels Light for the Born-Again - New birth produces a new nature (1 John 5:1; 2 Corinthians 5:17). - Love reshapes motives—duty turns to delight (John 14:15). - The Spirit supplies power, not mere willpower (Galatians 5:22-23; Ezekiel 36:26-27). - Faith overcomes the world’s pull (1 John 5:4). Love Transforms the Load - “The love of God… we keep His commandments” (1 John 5:3). - When love drives, the same task looks entirely different—like carrying a child instead of a sack of rocks. - Psalm 119:97: “Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all day long.” Christ’s Easy Yoke - Matthew 11:28-30: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” - He shares the yoke, bearing the weight we could not. - Hebrews 4:15-16 guarantees mercy and help when we stumble. Promises That Lighten the Load - Psalm 19:7-8—God’s statutes revive the soul and bring joy. - Deuteronomy 30:11—“This commandment… is not too difficult for you.” - Romans 8:4—The righteous requirement of the law is fulfilled in those who walk by the Spirit. Practical Ways to Experience the “Not Burdensome” Reality - Remain in His Word daily; truth steadies the heart (John 8:31-32). - Rely on the Spirit moment by moment—pray, “Lord, live Your life through me.” - Choose love in relationships; love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:10). - Stay in fellowship; obedience grows easier together (Hebrews 10:24-25). Summing Up Because God gives a new heart, supplies inner power, and walks beside His people, His commands become life-giving paths rather than oppressive rules. For the one who loves Him, obedience is not a load to drag but a road to freedom. |
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