“You are my friends if you do what I command.” — John 15:14
What would it take to be a friend of God?
Abraham was called the friend of God in James 2:23. We know that Abraham had faith in God and trusted Him with his life. Abraham obeyed God’s command and pleased Him (Hebrews 11:6).
Obedience as Friendship
Jesus told His disciples that if they did what He commanded, they would prove their friendship to Him. We cannot claim to love Jesus if we do not do what He says (Luke 6:46).
The Ultimate Sacrifice
Jesus proved His friendship by dying for us to save us from sin. In John 15:13, Jesus said:
“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”
Jesus showed us that He is the greatest friend we will ever have by sacrificing Himself to save us.
Our Response
Knowing His love for us, and that He showed His love before He demanded obedience, how can we not obey Him? He wants us to be safe in this world and saved eternally.
If we follow His commandments, we will enjoy a wonderful life on this earth and a home in heaven. Jesus is our friend; let us show Him we are His friends through our obedience.
Private Reflection Journal
What is one thing from this study that you can apply to your life today? Jot down your thoughts below.