December 16, 2009
"Teach them to obey everything I commanded you." Matthew 28:18-20
What must Christians do to follow Jesus beyond salvation?
1) Know what He said, not just what others say He said.
2) Seek to understand why Jesus spoke the words He spoke.
3) Apply what Jesus taught.
When we study the commands of Jesus we must make a decision.
1) Do I want to know?
2) Do I want to understand?
3) Will I apply?
John 14:15 "If you love Me obey My commandments."
John 14:21 21 He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him."
When we choose to learn and obey the commands of Jesus, we place ourselves in a position where we can love Him. In doing so we will be loved by the Father, and by Jesus. Then He (Jesus) will also show Himself to us.
Let's start by looking at some commands of Jesus found in the book of Matthew.
Jesus teaches about the importance of listening and obeying His commands. Matthew 7:24-28
Jesus…
36. …commands followers to rest from religious rules. Matthew 11:28
37. …commands to hear the parable of the sower. Matthew 13:9
38. …commands followers to learn the explanation of the sower. Matthew 13:18
39. …commands followers to get the multitudes something to eat. Matthew 14:16 &18
40. …commands followers not to be afraid and Peter to come to Him on the water.Matthew 14:27 & 29
41. …commands followers to learn that words, not food, defiles. Matthew 15:10-11 (Matthew 15:10-20)
42. …commands a blessing on Simon Peter. Matthew 16:17
43. …commands Satan to get behind Him. Matthew 16:23
44. ...commands followers to deny themselves and take up cross. Matthew 16:24 (Matthew 10:39)
