1st John 2:3. “And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.”
KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. They are there that all may read, and act, and know – God has a standard, a plan for living, a way to show I am not free to live without restraint – selfish or immorally – And blissfully sinning, go on through life into a lost eternity Without some mechanism in place that is true for all – This is already in place – simple, easily understood when read – there is a law Written, not only on pages to be read, but also written indelibly on my heart – His commandments are to govern; to be a teacher to me – it’s been there from the start.
Listening to the Gospel message, a command is there that I must face – Repentance toward God is not an option, nor is it limited to a person or a place Sin cannot be ignored as if it were not serious nor didn’t matter Genuine repentance takes place, turning from sin to God – and faith comes after. Believing on Christ is not some light thing we assent to without consideration – Repentance is followed by faith in Christ alone – then God gives His free salvation. The command to show the reality of faith in Christ is believer’s baptism – Testifying that in Christ I died and was buried – now with new life in Him I am risen.
“This do,” is not some trivial matter, nor from the Master a casual suggestion – These are words of a command that Christ gave so He is the center of our occupation. A weekly practice to be carried out by disciples who have committed to following Him, Is the “Lord’s Supper,” a time and place of remembrance, not for forgiveness of sin. To think this command is lesser than the rest, is a wrong attitude indeed – His intention is: I hear and act on His command and to His holy Word pay heed. The Savior lives forever, a Victor over sin, death and hell – this I know is true – Making such a command to remember Him most serious – so this I do.
“May I never, O God my Father, ever think anything that is told me by Thee is less than important. Keep me from ever speaking in a way that would make people think they can trifle with God and the commands given to us. I pray in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”