The Proof

1 John 2:3 "And hereby do we know that we know him, if we keep his commandments."

Jesus once asked this poignant question, "Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" I read that a familiar complaint of those who despise Christian teaching is that "Christians" don't act like the definition of Christians: “A real disciple of Christ; one who believes in the truth of the Christian religion, and studies to follow the example, and obey the precepts, of Christ; a believer in Christ who is characterized by real piety.”! It is a sad commentary on the condition of the Lord's family when the ungodly are more aware of the expected behavior of God's people than the Christians are.

Deuteronomy 12:28 “Observe and obey all these words which I command you, that it may go well with you and your children after you forever, when you do what is good and right in the sight of the Lord your God.”

Of course, the issue is not unique to the New Testament times. Israel's historical saga is replete with seasons of rebellion and repentance—so much so that the psalmist in Psalm 78:6-8 prayed that the generation to come ,,, “might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments: and might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not steadfast with God.”

Deuteronomy 26:17 “Today you have proclaimed the Lord to be your God, and that you will walk in His ways and keep His statutes, His commandments, and His judgments, and that you will obey His voice.”

The articles stated that the emphasis by the Apostle John in his first epistle, however, is not on the reasons for willful disobedience, but on the results of willing obedience. Walking in the "light" ensures fellowship. Constant and willing obedience produces an effective prayer life. A lifestyle of obedience brings an awareness of the Holy Spirit's indwelling. Loving God produces obedience, which in turn brings joy in that obedience. Our deeds show whom we serve. Our righteous deeds prove whom we serve. Obedience is the proof.

John 14:23-24 Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.”