In John 15: 12-14 Jesus is speaking to his disciples about love, sacrifice and obedience.  He tells them that they should love as he had loved them (vs12), that there is no greater love than to lay down their lives for a friend (vs 13) and finally how that they were His friends if they followed His commandments (vs 14).

The word friend as used in these passages means one that is loved and is dear.  All Christians and many in the world claim that Jesus loves them and in fact that they hold him dear.  But wait, the love that Jesus proposes is conditional, “if ye do whatever I command you”.  Said another way in John 14:15 “If ye love Me keep my commandments”; and these commandments are not grievous (weighty or burdensome) (1 John 5:3).

Are we friends of Jesus?  He showed His love and friendship to us by dying on the cross for our sins and continuing to cleanse the faithful (1 John 1:7).  Are we doing our part in the relationship? Do we work to live in a way that is consistent with His teachings?  If so, then as friends of Jesus let us remember to appreciate and rest in the blessings of His love.  Hallelujah what a Saviour!

How God Saves –   Keep the Faith