The Proof of Obedience

“By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments.”  1 John 2:3

Jesus once said: “Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). Poignant question. A familiar complaint of those who despise Christian teaching is that “Christians” don’t act like Christians! 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.

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 prayed: “That the generation to come might know...That they may arise and tell them to their children, That they should put their confidence in God and not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments, And not be like their fathers, A stubborn and rebellious generation, A generation that did not prepare its heart and whose spirit was not faithful to God” (Psalm 78:6-8).

The emphasis by 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 (1 John 1:7).
  - Constant and willing obedience produces an effective prayer life
    (1 John 3:22).
  - A lifestyle of obedience brings an awareness of the Holy Spirit’s
    indwelling (1 John 3:24).
  - Loving God produces obedience, which in turn brings joy in that
    obedience (1 John 5:3).

Our deeds show whom we serve (1 John 3:7). Our righteous deeds prove whom we serve (Matt. 7:16-20).