John 14: Obedience and Intimacy

21 May 2017 - Rev. David Pileggi looks at the particular context of God’s relationship with the Jewish people. He is the God of Abraham Isaac & Jacob and of Israel, Jesus is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. It all starts with the Jewish people in the context of what has gone before. God is giving Israel commandments which are good and to be seen in the context of the covenant of obedience. Restoration is dependent ultimately on their obedience and in them putting away their idolatry. The ultimate purpose of Israel’s blessing, “Is that the world may know”. There is no intimacy without obedience. The biblical core of intimacy is obedience, for Israel and The Church. “If you love me you will keep my commandments.” The promises are conditional to our obedience, out of love for God and in keeping his commandments. The promise of the Spirit works by love and obedience. This is what it means to be saved; in intimate relationship with Jesus and The Father “If you continue to love me then you will keep my commandments.”

Readings: Deuteronomy 6:17-25, Ezekiel 37:21- 28, John 14:15-21