Monday, April 2, 2012

Commandments and Words

Jesus said two things about loving him.

If you love me keep my commandments (John 14:15).
If anyone loves me he will keep my words (John 14:23).

What is the difference between his commandments and his words? Aren't
they the same?

His commandments are specific directions; i.e. Thou shalt not steal, kill, lie etc; and "Thou shall love the Lord thy God with all your with all your heart, soul and mind and love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-40).

His words are principles by which we base our decisions and our relationships; i.e. "Peace I give you. My peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid?" (John 14:27).