Textual evidence is divided (cf. p. 146) between this and the reading “you will keep my commandments.” In the latter reading the Greek verb is in the future tense, which may also be translated as an imperative, as in Matt. 22:37, 39. If translated thus, there is little difference between the readings. However, the indicative “you will keep” brings out the significant thought that obedience is the natural result of love. The parallel statement in John 14:23 is clearly in the indicative mood, and hence supports this thought.

 The commandments of Jesus were also the commandments of the Father, for Jesus spake not of Himself (chs. 12:49; 14:10). He endorsed the moral commands given to ancient Israel (see on Matt. 5:17-19) and magnified them (see on Isa. 42:21). He gave commands of His own, such as the new commandment (John 13:34), not to replace any of the moral precepts, which reflected the character of the unchangeable God, but to set forth their true meaning and to show how their principles should be applied to various life situations.

 Love is the motive power of obedience. For a definition of “love” see on Matt. 5:43, 44; 1 Cor. 13:1. Obedience that springs from compulsion or from fear is not the ideal form of obedience. There may be times, of course, where the motive power of love is lacking or weak. It is necessary under those circumstances to render obedience from principle alone. In the meantime love should be cultivated. A lack of the requisite love should never be made an excuse for disobedience. One of the best human illustrations of obedience that springs from love is that of children to their parents.