Many were taught a separation that doesn’t exist. That faith replaced the law. That love replaced obedience. That grace removed structure.
But Jesus didn’t say that. He said, “If ye love me, my commands keep.”
Love is not unstructured. Love is covenant.
The Covenant Equation
Love for God is expressed in three parts:
Faith — believing in God through Jesus the Christ
Law — keeping His commandments
Repentance — turning from sin when we fall short
“Every one who is believing that Jesus is the Christ, of God he hath been begotten… in this we know that we love the children of God, when we may love God, and His commands may keep; for this is the love of God, that His commands we may keep…” (1 John 5:1–3)
The Word = The Law = The Commandments
They are not separate things.
They are the same voice of the same God, given so we would know what is good, walk in it, and stay close to Him.
“My son, keep my words, and hide with thee my commandments… write [them] on the table of thine heart.” (Proverbs 7:1–3)
“Law then do we make useless through the faith? let it not be! yea, we do establish law.” (Romans 3:31)
Repentance Isn’t a Loophole
Repenting for sin doesn’t mean we keep repeating it.
Repentance is:
Acknowledging the break in covenant
Turning back toward obedience
Choosing the Way again
“Reform ye [repent], for come nigh hath the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 4:17) “Reform, and be baptized each of you on the name of Jesus Christ, to remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38)
One Law for All
“There shall be one law and one ordinance for you, and for the stranger that abides among you.” (Numbers 15:16)
Jesus didn’t abolish the Law—He walked it perfectly, then told us to follow Him.
“Here is endurance of the saints: here [are] those keeping the commands of God, and the faith of Jesus.” (Revelation 14:12)
Begin With Love
If you don’t know where to start, start with love:
Love leads to obedience.
Obedience draws you to the Word.
The Word gives you structure.
Structure keeps you near God.
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and all thy strength… and these words… shall be in thy heart…” (Deuteronomy 6:5–6)
Closing Reflection
“So also the faith, if it may not have works, is dead by itself.” (James 2:17)
Faith and Law are not in conflict. They are the two legs of the same walk.
Love is not a feeling. Love is alignment.
Scripture to Revisit:
John 14:15 1 John 5:1–5 Romans 3:31 Deuteronomy 6:5–6 Matthew 22:37–40 James 2:14–26 Revelation 14:12
Behind the Narrow Gate 