Today we explore what the Gospel of John has to say about the guidelines for abundant living. In John 4:23-24, Jesus says that the hour “now is” that all true worshipers will worship in spirit and in truth. Jesus here is calling for a balanced form of worship: a worship that comes from the heart, that is sincere and deeply felt, that comes from the love and the fear of God. There is nothing wrong with emotions in worship. At the same time, God calls upon His true worshipers to worship Him “in truth.” God has revealed His will, His truth, His law—truth that we are expected to believe and obey. True worshipers will love God and from that love seek to serve Him, obey Him, and do what is right.
Later, in John 14:15, Jesus says, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Yes, our worship should flow from love. But if we truly love, we will do what Jesus commands us to do.
Other scriptures referenced include Deuteronomy 5:6; John 4:21; 1 John 5:2; Mark 12:30; John 13:33, 36; John 14:1-4, 6; Matthew 22:32; Exodus 3:6; John 8:58; Matthew 28:20;John 18:4-6; Acts 4:12; Psalm 119:142; Matthew 5:17, 22, 28,32, 34, 39, 44; John 1:1; John 10:17-18; John 14:19; and John 8:31-32.
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