Tag: Believe

TODAY’S DAILY BIBLE VERSE: We Don’t Mar the Image

Today is September 23, 2025

Exodus 20:13- “Thou shalt not kill.”

Verse Context

This commandment is the sixth of the Ten Commandments given by God to Israel at Mount Sinai. Moses, as the mediator, records these words as part of the covenant between God and His chosen people. The immediate setting is a holy encounter: thunder, lightning, smoke, and the trembling of the mountain as God speaks directly to the people (Exodus 19–20). These commandments are not arbitrary rules but expressions of God’s holy character, showing Israel how to live in covenant relationship with Him and with one another.

The Hebrew phrase translated “kill” in the King James Bible specifically carries the sense of “murder”, the deliberate, unlawful, or unjust taking of human life. It does not prohibit all killing in every circumstance, as the law itself later distinguishes between accidental death, judicial execution, warfare, and personal murder (see Exodus 21 and Deuteronomy 19). What God forbids here is the intentional shedding of innocent blood.

The intent of this commandment is to preserve human life because it is sacred, made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26–27). It is a reaffirmation of the principle already given after the Flood in Genesis 9:6, where God declared that to shed human blood unjustly is to attack His image. By placing this commandment at the center of Israel’s covenant law, God sets a standard that life is not to be ended by human willfulness, vengeance, or hatred.

This law also functioned as a boundary for the community of Israel. Surrounded by nations that often practiced violence, blood feuds, and child sacrifice, Israel was to stand apart as a people who recognized life’s divine value. The commandment drew a clear line: no individual has the right to arrogate God’s authority over life and death for selfish or malicious purposes.

When read in its original setting, this commandment is not only a social safeguard but a theological declaration. Life belongs to God, and man may not treat it cheaply. The commandment also sets the stage for further elaborations in the law that distinguish between killing that is murder and killing that is not, creating the foundation for discussions of justice, defense, and accountability that run throughout the rest of Scripture.

Broader Context

The sixth commandment, “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13), stands as one of the shortest yet weightiest statements in all of Scripture. At its core it condemns murder. But Scripture does not leave the command hanging in the air without clarity; it anchors it in God’s image and then surrounds it with teaching that helps God’s people distinguish murder from other forms of killing that may arise in a fallen world.

The first anchor point is Genesis 1:26–27 and Genesis 9:6. From the beginning, mankind was created in the image of God, and after the Flood God reaffirmed this principle: “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.” The logic is simple yet profound: because man bears God’s image, to strike down a human life unjustly is to deface the Creator Himself. I would use this as the strongest argument against abortion even for those who do not believe. The sixth commandment is therefore not merely a rule for social order but a theological declaration of God’s ownership of life.

The law of Moses further clarifies this command. Exodus 21:12–14 distinguishes between premeditated murder and accidental killing: “He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death… But if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbour, to slay him with guile; thou shalt take him from mine altar, that he may die.” Intent and malice are the critical factors that turn killing into murder. Likewise, Numbers 35:9–15 establishes the cities of refuge for those guilty of manslaughter, again affirming that not every loss of life is equivalent to murder in God’s eyes.

The law also makes room for the defense of life. Exodus 22:2–3 teaches that if a thief breaks into a house at night and is struck down, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed. However, if the same happens in the daylight, when danger can be assessed more clearly, there is guilt if the intruder is killed. The point is restraint. God allows for protection of innocent life but requires careful judgment to prevent vengeance or excess. In this way, the command “Thou shalt not kill” stands alongside provisions for self-defense, showing that God’s goal is the preservation of life, not the rigid prohibition of every form of killing.

The prophets often return to the spirit of this command when they condemn Israel for shedding innocent blood. Jeremiah 22:3 declares, “Thus saith the LORD; Execute ye judgment and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor: and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place.” Murder was not only an individual act but a societal sin when nations or leaders exploited or destroyed the vulnerable. God’s command reached beyond personal morality to national righteousness.

In the New Testament, Jesus raises the bar from the physical act of murder to the inward condition of the heart. In Matthew 5:21–22 He says, “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment.” Christ reveals that the sixth commandment was always meant to do more than prevent physical violence; it was to expose the anger, hatred, and contempt that seed murder long before a weapon is drawn. John carries this thought further: “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him” (1 John 3:15). Thus, the commandment calls us not only to restrain our hands but to submit our hearts to God’s transforming grace.

Paul reinforces this in Romans 13:9–10: “Thou shalt not kill… and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” Love is the positive fulfillment of the negative command. Not murdering is the starting line; actively loving others as oneself is the goal.

Taken together, the broad biblical witness shows that Exodus 20:13 is not an isolated prohibition but part of a sweeping ethic rooted in God’s holiness. It distinguishes between murder, manslaughter, and just defense; it condemns hatred, vengeance, and bloodshed; it calls societies to protect the weak; and it presses individuals to cultivate love instead of anger. In short, the sixth commandment points us to the sanctity of life and the God who gave it, urging us to honor Him by valuing His image in every person.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness
The commandment, “Thou shalt not kill,” is not simply a rule to restrain violence but a revelation of God’s greatness. It reminds us that life belongs to Him alone. He is the Author of life, the One who formed man from the dust and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Genesis 2:7). His greatness is seen in the dignity He has given to every human being, for we are made in His image. That truth extends even to those outside the faith, those who do not believe or who live in rebellion against Him. To take their life unjustly is still to mar the image of God and to despise His creative work. This is why the commandment holds universal weight, it is rooted not in human legislation but in divine authority. God’s greatness in creation calls us to respect life in all its forms, to treat every person as bearing His mark, and to honor His sovereignty over life and death.

For the Believer
For those who follow Christ, this commandment takes on both a sobering and a hopeful tone. It sobers us because it teaches that murder is not only an act of violence but a reflection of the heart. Jesus exposed the seed of murder in anger and hatred, showing us that to harbor such feelings is already to break the commandment (Matthew 5:21–22). Therefore, the believer must guard against bitterness, rage, and contempt, knowing that these sins dishonor God’s image in others. At the same time, this commandment fills us with hope, for it is part of God’s covenant love to protect His people and preserve life. Believers are called to mourn with those who mourn, to comfort the grieving, and to uphold justice with humility. When violence and murder strike close to home, as in the tragic deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman, Charlie Kirk, and Iryna Zarutska, Christians are not to give way to despair or vengeance but to cling to the God who values life and promises resurrection through His Son.

Call to Action
The believer’s call to action is clear. We are to honor life by loving our neighbors as ourselves, refusing to repay evil with evil, and resisting the temptation to dehumanize others even in our thoughts. We must pray for grieving families, stand beside survivors, and declare boldly that life is sacred. We are also called to forgive as Christ forgave us, even while working for justice in our communities. This means speaking truth about the value of every person, refusing to allow politics or partisanship to determine whose life is worth more, and being peacemakers in a culture saturated with violence and hate. By doing these things, we demonstrate the gospel of life to a watching world and magnify the God who has conquered death through Jesus Christ.

For the Unbeliever
For those outside of Christ, this commandment is a mirror. Some mock death and even profit from it, revealing the hardness of their hearts. To treat human life as a joke or a means for gain is to despise God’s image and invite His judgment. Scripture warns, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:7). Yet for others, these tragedies stir searching questions. They long to know why life feels so fragile and what hope can be found in the face of death. The answer is not in laws, politics, or empty comforts. The answer is found in Jesus Christ, who said, “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live” (John 11:25). He offers forgiveness for sin, peace with God, and eternal life. To those searching: your value is real, your life has meaning, and the One who gave you breath calls you to Himself for salvation and everlasting hope.

Final Encouragement

Even in a world shaken by violence, we must not forget that God is still on His throne. The sixth commandment reminds us that He values life so deeply that He guards it with His own law. While headlines may grieve us, while murder and injustice may weigh us down, God’s people are never left powerless. The Holy Spirit abides within every believer, comforting us in sorrow and strengthening us for courage. Communities are rising together, churches are uniting in prayer, and the gospel continues to shine. This is not the time to give up; this is the time to stand firm. Like a team coming out of the locker room after a hard first half, the church must remember that the game is not lost. The victory is already secure in Christ. Death is defeated, sin has been overcome, and Satan’s end is certain. Do not lose heart; press forward in faith. Win with Jesus, who has already won for you.

Our Prayer for You

Lord, we thank You that You are the Giver of life and the One who has power over death. We ask You today to comfort those who mourn, to strengthen those who are weak, and to give courage to Your people as they face the brokenness of this world. Holy Spirit, abide with us. Fill us with Your presence so that fear is driven out and love takes root. Help us to defend the vulnerable, to honor the image of God in others, and to shine with the light of Christ in dark places. Encourage us when we feel weary, lift us when we fall, and send us out with boldness to live as witnesses of Your truth. May we never forget that in Christ we already stand on the side of victory. We pray this in the name of Jesus, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Closing

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

TODAY’S DAILY BIBLE VERSE

August 19, 2025

Romans 3:23–24 – 23For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.

Verse Context

Paul here confronts the great equalizer of humanity: sin. In verse 23, he declares that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Every single person, Jew or Gentile, religious or irreligious, is under the same verdict. Sin is more than breaking laws; it is falling short of God’s glory, His holiness, and His perfect design for us. We were created to reflect God’s image, yet sin has distorted that reflection.

Verse 24 offers the answer to this universal problem: “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” To be justified is to be declared righteous before God, not on the basis of works or law, but as a gift of grace. The word freely highlights that justification cannot be bought, earned, or achieved by human effort. It comes only through redemption, a word that pictures a ransom being paid to set a slave free. The ransom was paid by Jesus on the cross, His blood purchasing freedom for sinners.

Together these verses hold both the bad news and the good news in a single breath: all people have sinned and fallen short, but God has made salvation available freely through Christ’s redeeming sacrifice.

Broader Context

Romans chapter 3 is Paul’s sweeping conclusion to his argument that both Jews and Gentiles are guilty before God. In the first two chapters, Paul demonstrates that Gentiles, though without the Law, are guilty because they suppress the truth of God in unrighteousness (Romans 1). Then he turns to the Jews, who possessed the Law but failed to keep it (Romans 2). By the time he reaches chapter 3, Paul has leveled the playing field: “There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10). All humanity stands condemned under sin.

Within this setting, verses 23–24 shine as a turning point. Verse 23 summarizes the problem: universal sin and falling short of God’s glory. Verse 24 immediately provides the solution: justification offered freely by grace through Christ’s redemption. This shift prepares the way for Paul’s detailed teaching on justification by faith in Romans 4 and 5.

It is also important to see how these verses confront the mindset of Paul’s audience in Rome. Jews were tempted to boast in their covenant status and the Law, while Gentiles might look to philosophy, morality, or culture. But Paul insists that none of these can save, all fall short. Only God’s gracious act in Christ offers true righteousness.

Romans 3:23–24 therefore lies at the very heart of the gospel message. They remind us of the hopelessness of man’s condition apart from God, and the glorious hope that salvation is God’s work from beginning to end, rooted in His grace and secured in Christ’s redeeming sacrifice.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness

These verses magnify God’s greatness by showing both His holiness and His mercy. His holiness is seen in the reality that all have sinned and fallen short of His glory (23). God’s standard has never shifted, He demands perfection because He is perfect. Yet His mercy is revealed in verse 24, where He provides justification freely by His grace. What man could never accomplish, God has accomplished through Christ. His greatness shines in holding together both perfect justice (sin must be punished) and perfect grace (sinners are redeemed through Christ).

For the Believer

For Christians, these verses remind us that we stand on equal ground with every other believer. None of us earned our place in God’s family. We were justified freely by His grace. This truth keeps us humble and thankful. It also guards us from pride, because no amount of personal righteousness could have saved us. At the same time, it fills us with assurance: our justification does not rest on how well we perform today, but on what Christ has already done for us at the cross.

Call to Action: Let gratitude shape your prayers this week. Each day, thank God specifically for His grace in saving you apart from works. Then look for one opportunity to show that same grace to someone else.

For the Unbeliever

For those who have not yet trusted Christ, Romans 3:23–24 makes your condition and God’s invitation clear. All have sinned, that includes you. No effort, good deed, or religious work can erase your guilt. But God offers justification freely through Jesus Christ. Redemption is not something you must purchase; it is something Christ has already purchased with His blood. The only question is whether you will receive it by faith.

Final Encouragement

Romans 3:23–24 shows us the whole gospel in miniature: the problem of sin and the solution of grace. Every person stands guilty before God, yet every person is offered the same free gift of justification in Christ. There is no sin too great, no past too heavy, that God’s grace cannot cover. The gospel is not about what we do for God, but what God has done for us in Jesus.

Our Prayer for You

Lord, we thank You that though all have sinned and fallen short of Your glory, You did not leave us in our guilt. Thank You for the free gift of justification through Jesus Christ. Strengthen believers to live with gratitude and humility, and draw unbelievers to see that salvation is not earned but given by Your grace. May the truth of redemption in Christ Jesus bring hope and transformation today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

Today’s Daily Bible Verse: Being Saved Means Being Renewed

June 30, 2025

Second Corinthians chapter 4 verse 16:
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

Verse Context

The Apostle Paul wrote Second Corinthians around A.D. 55–57, most likely from Macedonia during his third missionary journey. This letter is his most emotionally transparent, written after a painful visit to Corinth and a sorrowful letter that had caused grief but ultimately led to the church’s repentance (see 2 Corinthians 7:8–10).

Here in chapter 4, Paul is defending his ministry while also encouraging believers to endure suffering for Christ’s sake. Verse 16 is part of a powerful passage (verses 7–18) where Paul contrasts the temporal suffering of the flesh with the eternal glory of the spirit. His message is clear: don’t lose heart. Even though the “outward man” (our physical body) weakens with age, affliction, or persecution, the “inward man” (our spiritual self, born again by the Holy Ghost) is daily renewed by God’s strength.

The Greek word used for “renewed” is anakainoutai (ἀνακαινοῦται), ah-nah-kai-NOO-tai: ah – like “father,” nah – like “nah, I’m good,” kai – rhymes with “eye,” NOO – stressed syllable, like “noon” without the ‘n’ at the end, tai – rhymes with “tie,” meaning to be made new again, to be refreshed. This points to the ongoing, present-tense activity of the Holy Spirit at work in the believer’s heart, not a one-time event. It also reminds us of Lamentations 3:22–23: “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.”

Broader Context

The entire fourth chapter of Second Corinthians contrasts human weakness with God’s power. Paul reminds the Corinthian believers that the treasure of the gospel is held in “earthen vessels”, fragile clay jars (verse 7), so that the exceeding power is of God, and not of us.

This chapter focuses on perseverance in ministry, faith in the unseen, and eternal perspective. Paul is repeatedly afflicted, perplexed, and cast down, but not forsaken. He makes it clear that his endurance is not fueled by human strength but by the life of Jesus made manifest in him (verse 10). The message of verse 16 culminates in verses 17–18: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” Paul’s message is timeless: Don’t let decay, sickness, or suffering shake you, the eternal soul is being shaped for glory, day by day.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness

This verse reveals God as a faithful, daily restorer of our inner man. He does not simply save us once and leave us to survive on yesterday’s strength. His renewing work is constant, like manna from heaven, His mercy and strength come new every morning, giving spiritual life even while the body ages or weakens.

For the Believer

No matter what you’re facing today, exhaustion, depression, chronic pain, discouragement in ministry, this verse is a reminder that God has not left you. The spiritual life within you is not dependent on your circumstances, but on the continual presence of the Holy Ghost.

Call to Action:
Spend time in prayer today and ask the Lord to renew your inner man. Don’t let weakness or weariness define your day. Instead, lean on the Spirit of God and meditate on this truth: “yet the inward man is renewed day by day.” Let the Word, worship, and communion with God refresh your spirit. Encourage others with this verse as well, especially those who are suffering or weary.

For the Unbeliever

You may feel the decline of life, the stress, the anxiety, the weight of time, but there is no inward renewal apart from Christ. This verse does not apply to those outside the faith. While your outward body perishes, so too does your spirit, unless you receive new life through Jesus Christ. The “inward man” can only be born through repentance and faith in Christ (John 3:3). Without Him, you are perishing both inside and out. But if you surrender to Him, He will make you new, give you peace, and renew you every day from the inside out.

Final Encouragement

This verse is a lifeline. It tells you that even when you’re physically weak, God’s Spirit is strong inside of you. You may be tired, but you are not abandoned. You may be in pain, but you are being renewed. Keep your eyes on the eternal. Let God strengthen your spirit today, He has fresh strength for you, every single day.

Prayer

Father God, we thank You for being the strength of our lives. Though we are tired, aging, or weary in the flesh, Your Spirit never fails to revive us. Renew our hearts today, Lord. Fill our minds with Your peace and our souls with fresh courage. For those struggling with sickness, sorrow, or exhaustion, bring the comfort of knowing that You are at work inside them even now. Help us not to focus on what we see with our eyes, but on the eternal truth of Your Word. We trust You. We love You. We surrender to Your daily renewal. In Jesus’ holy name we pray, Amen.

Closing

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

Today’s Daily Bible Verse: Empty Faith

June 27, 2025

Luke chapter 6 verse 46:
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?

VERSE CONTEXT

This powerful statement was spoken by Jesus during what is often called the “Sermon on the Plain,” a message that parallels the more well-known “Sermon on the Mount.” While Matthew emphasized the setting on a mountain, Luke’s Gospel (written by Luke the physician and companion of Paul) highlights a more level setting to symbolize Jesus reaching people of every class and background. Luke’s Gospel often emphasizes Jesus’ heart for the outcast, the Gentile, the poor, and the sinner.

In Luke chapter 6, Jesus had just finished teaching on love for enemies, judging others, and the fruit of righteousness. Then He asked this question to pierce through hypocrisy: Why do you say I am your Lord if you do not obey Me? The Greek word for “Lord” here is Kyrios (κύριος) [KOO-ree-os], meaning “master,” “owner,” or “sovereign.” In Hebrew culture, calling someone Lord was a declaration of submission and authority. So when Jesus says, “Why call ye me, Lord, Lord,” He’s pointing out the contradiction of honoring Him with words while denying Him in action.

This verse isn’t just a mild rebuke; it is a courtroom charge. Jesus is challenging all who profess Him to consider whether their lives match their lips. The repetition of Lord, Lord adds urgency and emphasis; it reflects a passionate, outward show of allegiance. But words mean nothing without obedience.

BROADER CONTEXT

This verse serves as the climax to Luke’s version of the Sermon. Right after this, in verses 47–49, Jesus tells the parable of the wise and foolish builders; the one who hears and does His words is like a man who dug deep and laid the foundation on rock. But the one who hears and does not obey is like a man who built his house without a foundation. So Luke 6:46 introduces that teaching by confronting the heart of every professing follower: Do you obey Me, or do you only acknowledge Me when it’s convenient?

This is also connected to the greater theme of all four Gospels: true discipleship. Jesus is not interested in empty religion, ritualistic obedience, or shallow allegiance. Over and over again, He exposes superficial faith, people who follow Him for miracles or popularity but not for truth, holiness, and surrender. Luke 6:46 cuts straight to the core of the Christian walk: If He is your Lord, obedience is not optional.

APPLICATION

APPRECIATING GOD’S GREATNESS

God is not silent. He speaks, He teaches, and He commands, but not to burden us. He gives commands because He is holy and because obedience leads to life, blessing, and spiritual freedom. It is a testimony of His mercy that He even invites us to obey rather than simply judging us for disobedience. That Jesus would ask this question shows that He desires not just our service, but our hearts.

FOR THE BELIEVER

Jesus is asking us today, “Why do you call Me your Lord but live in contradiction to My Word?” If we call Him Lord, that means we’ve surrendered every area of life to Him: our words, our choices, our relationships, and our priorities. This verse confronts the danger of lip-service Christianity. Church attendance, Christian phrases, and emotional worship are not enough. Our obedience must be real, daily, and wholehearted.

CALL TO ACTION

Examine your life today. Is there a command of Jesus you’re ignoring? Is there something He has told you to do that you’ve delayed, avoided, or refused? Don’t harden your heart. Let this verse prompt repentance and renewal. Confess where you’ve fallen short and make a firm decision to do what Jesus says, not just say what He wants to hear.

FOR THE UNBELIEVER

You may believe Jesus is a good teacher or prophet. But He is more; He is Lord. And He is calling you not just to admire Him but to follow and obey Him. Luke 6:46 warns that claiming Jesus without obeying Him is meaningless. Salvation begins with surrender. If you have never repented and made Jesus your Lord, your Master, not just your safety net, today is the day to do it. Call on Him in truth, and begin to walk in obedience by faith.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT

Jesus is not fooled by titles or religious appearances. He sees the heart. Luke 6:46 is not a condemnation, it’s an invitation to real discipleship. To call Jesus Lord is to recognize Him as King, Redeemer, and Ruler. Don’t just say it, live it. His commands are not grievous; they are life-giving. Build your life on His Word, and walk in obedience, not just admiration.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus,
You are worthy to be called Lord in every sense of the word. Forgive us for the times we have honored You with our lips but resisted You with our actions. Teach us to obey not out of fear but out of love. Help us to examine ourselves honestly, to surrender our pride, and to follow You in every area of life. May our words and our deeds reflect the truth that You are Lord of all. In Your holy and precious name we pray, Amen.

CLOSING

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved; so much in fact, we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.


Shalom Shalom.

Today’s Daily Bible Verse: Is Jesus Abiding With You?

June 25, 2025

John 14:23
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

Verse Context

This verse comes from Jesus’ final discourse to His disciples, the night before His crucifixion. Judas (not Iscariot) had just asked Jesus why He would reveal Himself to them and not to the world (John 14:22). Jesus responds with this powerful condition: “If a man love me, he will keep my words.”

The Greek word for “keep” is tēreō (τηρέω), meaning to guard, observe, and obey carefully. It’s not passive acknowledgment; it’s active protection and commitment to what Jesus said.

Here, Jesus links love to obedience. There is no such thing as loving Jesus while ignoring what He says. His words carry divine authority, and to honor Him is to obey Him. Notice also the promise: those who obey will experience intimate fellowship with both the Father and the Son, who will “make their abode,” their dwelling place with the obedient believer.

Commentator John Gill (1697–1771, Baptist) writes, “This is not mere talk of religion; it is the life of it. The indwelling presence of God is the privilege of those who love Christ truly.”

Broader Context

John chapter 14 is one of the most comforting chapters in all of Scripture. Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure, assuring them that He is going to prepare a place for them (John 14:2), and that the Father will send the Holy Spirit to teach and comfort them (John 14:26).

This specific verse, however, cuts deep against the modern tendency to separate love from obedience. Many claim to “love Jesus” while disregarding His commands about repentance, holiness, sexual purity, church order, or doctrine. But Jesus says plainly: Only those who keep His words truly love Him. This truth is reinforced throughout Scripture:

  • Luke 6:46 – And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
  • First John 2:4 – He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

True love for Christ always results in submission to His Word. That is the mark of a true disciple.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness

Jesus doesn’t just demand obedience; He promises fellowship. The Creator of the universe desires to dwell with those who love and obey Him. This is the grace of intimacy that a holy God would make His home with sinners redeemed by grace. The greatness of God is seen in both His authority and His mercy.

For the Believer

Jesus doesn’t leave room for halfhearted Christianity. Love without obedience is hypocrisy. If we say we love Him, we must keep His words, not just the ones we like, but all of them. That includes His commands about prayer, forgiving others, evangelizing the lost, denying ourselves, and standing for truth.

Call to Action

Examine your heart today. Are you truly keeping His words or just claiming His name? Let your love be proven by your obedience. Don’t compromise to please the world; cling to His Word and walk in it. He promised that if you love and obey, He and the Father will dwell with you.

For the Unbeliever

You may say you respect Jesus or even admire Him. But admiration is not enough. Jesus said that love is shown through obedience. If you’ve never surrendered your life to Christ, this verse is a personal invitation: love Him by trusting Him, obeying His words, and turning from sin. He will come into your life—not as a guest, but as Lord.

Final Encouragement

John 14:23 is not a suggestion, it’s a dividing line. Whoever loves Jesus will keep His Word. There’s no separation between faith and obedience. And for those who obey, there is a glorious promise: God Himself will come and dwell with them. That is love, mercy, and holiness all wrapped in one.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us that true love is found in obedience. Help us to take Your words seriously and to guard them with our lives. May our love not be lip service, but proven in action. Dwell with us, Lord, make our lives a temple where Your Word is cherished and obeyed. For those still far from You, open their eyes and call them by name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.