The Teachings of Jesus
Learning to Live the Way of Christ
Jesus did not simply come to give us information; He came to show us a new way to live life.
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus calls His followers to be His disciples—men and women who not only believe His words but also put them into practice.
He said:
“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” (John 14:15)
And again:
“Everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24)
The Fellowship of The Way encourages believers to follow and hold to the teachings of Jesus. As apprentices of Christ, we seek to know His words, obey His commands, and gradually become more like our Rabbi, through obedience and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in us and through us.
Below is a summary of the central teachings and commands of Jesus, followed by a more comprehensive list for deeper study.
The Core Teachings of Jesus
❤️ Love
Love God
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”
(Matthew 22:37–38)
Love Others
“Love your neighbour as yourself.”
(Matthew 22:39)
The Golden Rule
“Treat others how you want to be treated.”
(Matthew 7:12)
Love Your Enemies
“Do good to those who hate you and pray for those who mistreat you.”
(Luke 6:27-28)
🌿 Kingdom Living
Repent
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
(Matthew 4:17)
Seek First God’s Kingdom
“Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness…”
(Matthew 6:33)
Take Up Your Cross
“Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me.”
(Luke 9:23–24)
Do Not Worry
“You heavenly Father will provide all you need. Therefore, do not worry or be anxious…”
(Matthew 6:33-34)
Take care not to be deceived
“Stay alert and beware of false teachers and prophets…”
(Matthew 24:4-5; Luke 21:8)
🤝 Relationships
Practice Forgiveness
“If you forgive others… your heavenly Father will forgive you.”
(Matthew 6:14)
The Golden Rule
“Do to others what you would have them do to you.”
(Matthew 7:12)
Do Not Judge Hypocritically
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged… if you do the same sort of things…”
(Matthew 7:1–5)
🌍 Mission
Make Disciples
“Go and make disciples of all nations… baptizing and teaching them to obey…”
(Matthew 28:19–20)
Serve Others
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
(Matthew 20:26–28)
Be Watchful
“Keep watch for the Lord’s appearing…”
(Matthew 24:42–44)
Summary of the most well-known Commands
- Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is Near (Matthew 4:17)
- Come and Follow Me (Matthew 4:19)
- Rejoice When You’re Persecuted in My Name (Matthew 5:11–12)
- Let Your Light Shine Before All People (Matthew 5:16)
- Be Reconciled to One Another (Matthew 5:23–24)
- Take Sin Very Seriously (Matthew 5:29–30)
- Keep Your Word (Matthew 5:37)
- Turn the Other Cheek (Matthew 5:39)
- Go Above and Beyond (Matthew 5:40–42)
- Love Your Enemies (Matthew 5:43–44)
- Be Perfect as Your Heavenly Father Is Perfect (Matthew 5:48)
- Focus on Spiritual Disciplines for the Right Reasons (Matthew 6:1–18)
- Put Your Efforts in the Right Place (Matthew 6:19–21)
- Seek God’s Kingdom First of All (Matthew 6:33)
- Do Not Worry About Tomorrow (Matthew 6:34)
- Use Right Judgment (Matthew 7:1–5)
- Practice Discretion (Matthew 7:6)
- Ask, Seek, and Knock (Matthew 7:7–8)
- Treat Others as You Would Like to Be Treated (Matthew 7:12)
- Choose the Narrow Path to Life (Matthew 7:13–14)
- Look Out for False Prophets (Matthew 7:15–20)
- Pray for Kingdom Labourers (Matthew 9:37–38)
- Be on Your Guard (Matthew 10:16–17)
- Do Not Fear Persecutors (Matthew 10:26–31)
- Take My Yoke Upon You (Matthew 11:28–30)
- Do Not Despise the Little Ones (Matthew 18:10)
- How to Deal with Offenders (Matthew 18:15–17)
- Practice Forgiveness (Matthew 18:21–22)
- Lead Through Service (Matthew 20:25–28)
- Love God with All Your Heart, Mind, and Soul (Matthew 22:37–38)
- Love Your Neighbour as Yourself (Matthew 22:39)
- Stay Alert and Keep Watch (Matthew 24:42–44)
- Make Disciples of All the Nations (Matthew 28:18–20)
- Deny Yourself (Luke 9:23–24)
- Watch Out for Greed (Luke 12:15)
- Give to Those Who Can’t Reciprocate (Luke 14:12–14)
- You Must Be Born Again (John 3:7)
- If You Love Me, Keep My Commandments (John 14:15)
The Commands of Jesus
Part One: Commands 1–10
Jesus calls His followers to do more than admire His teachings—He calls us to obey them – to practice them in our everyday lives. These commands are not burdens to earn God’s favour but invitations to live as children of God and co-heirs of His Kingdom. As we obey the teachings of Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit, we become more and more like Him.
1. Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is Near
Matthew 4:17
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Repentance is the first step after faith in Christ, in the Christian journey. It means turning away from our old behaviours (sin) and turning to God with a willing heart to follow His ways. It is not simply feeling guilty or sorry for our actions, leaving behind our old life and choosing to walk in obedience to God’s ways.
Putting It into Practice
As a believer and disciple of Jesus Christ, invite the Holy Spirit to search your heart each day. Confess your sins honestly, receive God’s forgiveness with gratitude, and ask for His strength to live in obedience. Keep a humble and teachable heart that is always willing to listen to God, accept correction and obey.
2. Come and Follow Me
Matthew 4:19
“Come, follow Me, and I will send you out to fish for people.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus calls us first into a relationship with Him before He calls us into service. To follow Christ is to become His apprentice—to learn from Him, imitate His life, and trust His leadership. Following Jesus is not a one-time decision but a lifelong journey of walking with Him and learning His ways.
Putting It into Practice
Spend time with Jesus each day through Scripture, worship and prayer. Ask yourself, “How can I serve God and others with my words and actions today?” Learn to listen and obey His teachings in the ordinary moments of life, trusting Him to teach you, lead you and guide you each day.
3. Rejoice When You’re Persecuted in My Name
Matthew 5:11–12
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Faithfulness to Christ will sometimes bring misunderstanding, rejection, or opposition. Jesus teaches us not to lose heart but to rejoice, knowing that we belong to Him and that our hope is secure in heaven.
Putting It into Practice
When your faith is misunderstood or criticised, pray for strength to respond with gentleness and love. Pray for those who oppose you and refuse to return evil for evil. Remember that your identity is found in Christ, and that He is with you to help and strengthen you. The disciples rejoiced when they were persecuted.
4. Let Your Light Shine Before All People
Matthew 5:16
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus calls His followers to live lives that visibly reflect God’s goodness and ways. Our words, attitudes, and actions should reflect Christ and be a light to others. Our good works are a testimony of God’s love and power at work in us.
Putting It into Practice
Look for opportunities each day to show kindness, compassion, honesty, and generosity, especially in you relationships. Let your life reflect the character of Jesus at home, at work, and in your community. Live in such a way that others are encouraged to glorify God.
5. Be Reconciled to One Another
Matthew 5:23–24
“First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Healthy relationships matter deeply to God. Jesus teaches that worship and reconciliation belong together. While reconciliation is not always possible, we are responsible for taking the initiative wherever we have caused offence or where broken relationships can be restored if at all possible.
Putting It into Practice
Do not allow resentment or unresolved conflict to take root. Pray for humility and courage, seek forgiveness when you have been wrong, and extend grace to those who have hurt you. As far as it depends on you, pursue peace with others.
6. Take Sin Very Seriously
Matthew 5:29–30
“If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away… If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus uses vivid language to show how destructive sin is. He is not calling for physical harm but urging us to deal decisively with anything that leads us away from God. Sin should never be treated lightly because it damages our relationship with God and others.
Putting It into Practice
Identify the habits, influences, or temptations that repeatedly draw you into sin. Take steps to remove whatever hinders your walk with Christ. This might involve removing yourself for certain individuals or places, limiting or eliminating unhealthy online activities, etc. It can be helpful to invite trusted believers to encourage and pray for you. Reach out for help if the struggle is too much. Pursue holiness with determination, relying on God’s grace rather than your own strength.
7. Keep Your Word
Matthew 5:37
“All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Followers of Jesus should be known for honesty and integrity. Our words should be trustworthy because our character reflects Christ and we must give account for every careless word we speak. We should speak truthfully, avoid deception, and faithfully keep our promises whenever possible.
Putting It into Practice
Speak with honesty and kindness. Be careful not to exaggerate or make promises you cannot keep. Let your actions match your words so that others learn they can trust you. It’s better to promise nothing if we can’t follow through.
8. Turn the Other Cheek
Matthew 5:39
“If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus calls His disciples to reject revenge and respond to personal insults with humility and self-control. Rather than escalating conflict, we are to overcome evil with patience, forgiveness, and love. This reflects the heart of Christ, who entrusted Himself to the Father even when He suffered unjustly.
Putting It into Practice
When someone offends or mistreats you, resist the desire to retaliate. Pause before responding, pray for wisdom, and try to choose words that bring peace rather than more conflict. Trust God to be your defender. This doesn’t mean we are to be door mats or can’t defend ourselves – we can learn from Jesus – sometimes he was silent, sometimes gave a gentle answer, other times he spoke straight and corrected people. He did not allow Himself to be mistreated, until the lead-up to the cross, when He did so to fulfil God’s requirements and the prophecies about the Messiah.
Further thought on the meaning
In the context of Jesus’ day and Jewish customs of the time: ‘Hitting a person on the right cheek was a forceful insult, a back-handed slap and the way a master or socially superior person insulted a superior.
Turning the left cheek was a bold rejection of the insult and the inferior status which demanded that the aggressor to treat you as equal and declares that has no authority to treat you with contempt or as less valuable, because you do not depend on their approval – it comes from elsewhere (God).’
9. Go Above and Beyond
Matthew 5:40–42
“If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Kingdom living is marked by generosity, humility, and willing service. Jesus encourages us to do more than the minimum expected. Instead of asking, “What must I do?” His disciples ask, “How can I serve with love?”
Putting It into Practice
Look for opportunities to serve without expecting recognition. Give generously of your time, encouragement, and resources. Surprise others with kindness that reflects the generosity of God. Take care not to over-commit yourself – self-care is important too.
10. Love Your Enemies
Matthew 5:43–44
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
What Jesus is Teaching
This is one of Jesus’ most challenging commands. We are called to love not only those who love us but also those who oppose us. Loving our enemies does not mean approving of wrongdoing; nor does it mean you must stay in an abusive or dangerous situation – it means praying for them, and refusing to be ruled by hatred or bitterness. In doing so, we reflect the mercy of our heavenly Father.
Putting It into Practice
Pray regularly for those who have hurt or opposed you. Ask God to replace resentment with compassion and bitterness with forgiveness. When appropriate, look for practical ways to show kindness and grace, remembering that Christ loved us even while we were still sinners.
Note: Sometimes, however, you may need to separate yourself from an individual or group that is abusive or dangerous in an ongoing way. You do not need to deliberately expose yourself to unkindness and should take steps to protect your safety and well-being where possible.
Note: Jesus is our example in all things, and He avoided dangerous situations, usually by moving on and going elsewhere. Only in His journey through His arrest, trial and crucifixion did Jesus allow Himself to be mistreated in obedience to God’s purposes and the salvation of mankind.
Part Two: Commands 11–20
As we continue through the commands of Jesus, we discover that He is not simply teaching outward behaviour but transforming the heart. These commands invite us to trust God more deeply, live with eternal perspective, and reflect His character in every area of life.
11. Be Perfect as Your Heavenly Father Is Perfect
Matthew 5:48
“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus calls His followers to spiritual maturity and wholehearted devotion. The word perfect carries the idea of being complete or mature in love. Just as our heavenly Father is holy, merciful, and loving, we are invited to grow into His likeness through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.
Putting It into Practice
Aim for Christlike character rather than outward perfection. Ask God each day to shape your attitudes, words, and actions. The best way to test how you’re doing, is to observe your actions, words and attitudes at home, with those people who are closest to you. Be patient with your spiritual growth, trusting that day-by-day God is faithfully completing the work He has begun in you, but keep on growing.
12. Focus on Spiritual Disciplines for the Right Reasons
Matthew 6:1–18
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus warns against performing acts of devotion simply to impress others. Giving, praying, and fasting are meant to deepen our relationship with God, not to earn praise from people. Our heavenly Father sees what is done in secret and delights in sincere hearts.
Putting It into Practice
Pray because you long to know God more deeply. Give generously without seeking recognition. Fast in secret with humility when appropriate. Let your spiritual life and practices be shaped by a desire to please God, rather than gain the approval of others.
13. Put Your Efforts in the Right Place
Matthew 6:19–21
“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus reminds us that earthly possessions are temporary, but eternal treasures never fade. What we value most shapes the priorities our lives. Kingdom priorities always outweigh material success. Make it your priority to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else.
Putting It into Practice
Examine how you spend your time, money, and energy. Invest more in things that have eternal value—loving people, giving and serving others generously, sharing the gospel, and growing in Christ. Hold earthly possessions lightly.
14. Seek God’s Kingdom First of All
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
What Jesus is Teaching
God’s Kingdom is our highest priority. Rather than allowing our lives to be dominated by worry over material needs, Jesus invites us to trust our heavenly Father and pursue His purposes above and before everything else.
Putting It into Practice
Begin each day by placing God first – with prayer, Bible reading, worship and waiting on God. Be aware of His presence with you throughout the day and listen for His voice. Seek His guidance in everything. Look for ways to honor and obey God in your relationships, finances, and work to sow into His Kingdom.
15. Do Not Worry About Tomorrow
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Worry often grows from trying to carry burdens that belong to God. Anxiety and depression come for worry and concern. Jesus, however, encourages us to trust our Father’s loving care, remembering that He knows our needs, answers prayer and faithfully provides for His children. The apostle Peter counsels us to cast our cares on Jesus, for He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).
Putting It into Practice
Bring your needs and concerns to God in prayer. Focus on today’s responsibilities instead of becoming overwhelmed by future uncertainties. When anxious thoughts arise, remind yourself of God’s promises and His faithfulness.
16. Use Right Judgment
Matthew 7:1–5
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus is not forbidding discernment but condemning hypocritical and self-righteous judgment. Before correcting others, we must honestly examine our own hearts and allow God to deal with our own shortcomings.
Putting It into Practice
Approach others with humility rather than criticism. Be quick to examine your own attitudes before pointing out someone else’s faults. When correction is necessary, speak the truth with gentleness, grace, and love.
17. Practice Discretion
Matthew 7:6
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus teaches that wisdom includes knowing when, where, and how to share truth. While the gospel is for everyone, there are times when people deliberately reject or mock what is holy. Discernment helps us know when to continue speaking and when to quietly entrust the matter to God.
Putting It into Practice
Share your faith with love and courage, but also with wisdom. Pray for guidance in difficult conversations and respect the freedom of others while continuing to demonstrate Christ’s love through your life.
18. Ask, Seek, and Knock
Matthew 7:7–8
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus invites His disciples into a life of confident and persistent prayer. Our heavenly Father delights to hear His children and encourages us to seek Him with faith, trusting His wisdom and perfect timing.
Putting It into Practice
Develop a habit of regular prayer. Bring your needs, questions, and desires before God. Keep seeking Him even when answers seem delayed, trusting that He always responds with perfect love and wisdom.
19. Treat Others as You Would Like to Be Treated
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Often called the Golden Rule, this command summarises how love should shape our relationships. Instead of asking what others deserve, Jesus teaches us to show the kindness, patience, and respect we ourselves would hope to receive.
Putting It into Practice
Before speaking or acting, ask yourself, “How would I want to be treated if I were in this person’s place?” Look for opportunities each day to show courtesy, compassion, generosity, and forgiveness.
20. Choose the Narrow Path to Life
Matthew 7:13–14
“Enter through the narrow gate… small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Following Jesus is not always the easiest path, but it is the only path that leads to true life. The way of Christ often requires sacrifice, obedience, and perseverance, yet it leads to lasting joy and eternal life with God.
Putting It into Practice
Choose faithfulness over popularity and obedience over convenience. Stand firm in biblical truth even when it is unpopular, keeping your eyes on Jesus. Persevere, even when the road is rough – never, never, never give up. Remember that every step taken with Christ leads you closer to the life He has promised and that He is with you always, even to the very end.
The Commands of Jesus
Part Three: Commands 21–30
As Jesus continued to teach His disciples, He prepared them for a life of godly wisdom, courage, compassion, and humble service. These commands remind us that following Christ means living with discernment, loving God and others sacrificially, and placing our confidence in God rather than ourselves.
21. Look Out for False Prophets
Matthew 7:15–20
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Not everyone who claims to speak for God truly represents Him. Jesus warns His followers to exercise discernment, testing every teaching by the truth of Scripture and the fruit it produces. Sound doctrine and godly character always belong together.
Putting It into Practice
Read the Bible regularly so you become familiar with God’s truth. Compare every teaching with Scripture rather than simply accepting popular opinions. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth as you study diligently the Scriptures, and be a humble student of the Scripture with a teachable spirit. Look for humility, integrity, and Christlike character in those who teach God’s Word, and aspire to this yourself.
22. Pray for Kingdom Labourers
Matthew 9:37–38
“Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus sees a world full of people who need hope, salvation, and discipleship. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the need, He invites His followers to pray that God will raise up faithful workers to proclaim the gospel.
Putting It into Practice
Pray regularly for pastors, missionaries, evangelists, teachers, and disciple-makers. Ask God to raise up workers in your church and community. Be willing to answer His call if He asks you to serve.
23. Be on Your Guard
Matthew 10:16–17
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Following Jesus requires both wisdom and integrity. Christians are called to navigate a broken world with discernment while maintaining purity, honesty, and love. Courage should always be balanced with humility and grace. Look for humility, integrity, and Christlike character, as well as sound teaching (that is well based in Scripture) in those who claim to be followers and teachers of Jesus.
Putting It into Practice
Be alert to situations that may compromise your witness. Make wise decisions without becoming fearful or suspicious. Let your conduct be marked by both wisdom and genuine Christlike love.
24. Do Not Fear Persecutors
Matthew 10:26–31
“Do not be afraid… You are worth more than many sparrows.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus reminds us that God knows us completely and cares for us deeply. Even in times of opposition, our lives remain securely in the Father’s hands. Fear loses its power when we trust God’s sovereign care.
Putting It into Practice
When fear or opposition arises, remember God’s promises instead of focusing on circumstances. Pray for courage to remain faithful and trust that nothing can separate you from His love.
25. Take My Yoke Upon You
Matthew 11:28–30
“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened… Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus invites weary people to find rest by walking closely with Him. His yoke is not a burden of legalism but a relationship of loving discipleship. As we learn from Christ, He carries our burdens and shapes our lives.
Putting It into Practice
Bring your worries, pressures, and weariness to Jesus each day. Spend time in prayer and Scripture, allowing Him to teach you and renew your strength. Trust Him instead of trying to carry life’s burdens alone, and obey His teachings.
26. Do Not Despise the Little Ones
Matthew 18:10
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Every person is precious to God, especially those who are vulnerable, overlooked, or dependent upon Him. Jesus values humility and reminds us that greatness in God’s Kingdom is measured by love and care for others.
Putting It into Practice
Treat children, the elderly, the lonely, and the vulnerable with dignity and compassion. Be patient with those who need encouragement, remembering that every person is deeply loved by God.
27. How to Deal with Offenders
Matthew 18:15–17
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus teaches that conflict should be handled with humility, honesty, and a desire for restoration. The goal is never to shame someone but to lovingly help them return to fellowship with God and others.
Putting It into Practice
If someone has wronged you, speak to them privately and graciously before involving others. Listen carefully, seek understanding, and pursue reconciliation wherever possible. Let love guide every difficult conversation. If they don’t listen, the Scriptures counsel us to take the matter to the elders of the church.
28. Practice Forgiveness
Matthew 18:21–22
“I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Because we have received God’s abundant forgiveness, we are called to forgive others freely and repeatedly. Forgiveness does not deny the reality of hurt, but it releases the desire for revenge and entrusts justice to God.
Putting It into Practice
Ask God to help you forgive those who have hurt you, even when forgiveness feels difficult. Pray for them and refuse to let bitterness take root. Remember the immeasurable grace Christ has shown you.
Note: forgiving someone who repeatedly mistreats you is necessary, but it does not mean that you need to put yourself in a position where you continue to be mistreated. You should have personal boundaries to protect yourself and may need to remove yourself from an abusive person. A believer should not deliberately allow themselves to be badly treated – this is detrimental to the believer and also enables the perpetrator to continue unacceptable behavior without correction. Jesus is our example and throughout the Gospel accounts, He stood up for Himself and took measures to protect Himself – until the cross, when it was God’s purpose for Jesus to walk this road.
29. Lead Through Service
Matthew 20:25–28
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus completely redefines greatness. In His Kingdom, leadership is expressed through humility, sacrifice, and service rather than power or status. Christ Himself is our perfect example, having come not to be served but to serve.
Putting It into Practice
Look for opportunities to serve quietly without seeking recognition. Encourage others, meet practical needs, and use your gifts to build up those around you. True leadership begins with a servant’s heart.
30. Love God with All Your Heart, Mind, and Soul
Matthew 22:37–38
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”
What Jesus is Teaching
This is the greatest commandment and the foundation of every other command. God desires our complete devotion—not merely outward obedience but hearts that delight in Him. Loving God involves every part of our lives: our thoughts, desires, decisions, worship, and relationships.
Putting It into Practice
Spend time each day growing your relationship with God through prayer, Scripture, worship, and gratitude. Make choices that honour Him in every area of life. Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:10, ‘… find out what pleases the Lord.’ Ask yourself often, “Does this please and honor God?” As your love for Him grows, obedience becomes a joyful response rather than a duty. God’s ways are wonderful. They are right and good.
The Commands of Jesus
Part Four: Commands 31–38
The final commands of Jesus draw together the heart of the Christian life. They remind us that discipleship begins with a transformed heart, is expressed through love and generosity, and culminates in making disciples who obey everything Christ has taught. These commands are not merely the end of the list—they are the lifelong calling of every follower of Jesus.
31. Love Your Neighbour as Yourself
Matthew 22:39
“Love your neighbour as yourself.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus places love for others alongside love for God as the foundation of the Christian life. Every person is made in God’s image and worthy of dignity, compassion, and respect. Loving our neighbour means seeking their good, showing kindness, and treating them with the same care we naturally desire for ourselves.
Putting It into Practice
Look for opportunities each day to encourage, help, and serve those around you – this includes those who are closest to you, your family. Listen well, speak kindly, forgive freely, and show practical compassion. Ask yourself, “How can I demonstrate Christ’s love to others today?”
32. Stay Alert and Keep Watch
Matthew 24:42–44
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus reminds His followers to live with expectancy and readiness. His return will come unexpectedly, so we are called to remain faithful rather than becoming spiritually complacent. Watching means living each day in obedience, hope, and joyful anticipation of Christ’s return.
Putting It into Practice
Live each day as though Christ could return at any moment. Stay faithful in prayer, worship, and obedience. Rather than becoming distracted by the concerns of this world, keep your heart fixed on God’s Kingdom.
33. Make Disciples of All the Nations
Matthew 28:18–20
“Go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus’ final commission is the mission of every believer. We are called not only to share the gospel and make believers, but to help others become mature disciples who know Christ, obey His teachings, and follow Him faithfully. Making disciples is the ongoing work of the Church until Christ returns.
Putting It into Practice
Pray for opportunities to share your faith. Encourage new believers, study Scripture together, and help others grow in their relationship with Christ. Whether at home, at work, or in your community, seek to lead people toward Jesus by both your words and your example.
34. Deny Yourself
Luke 9:23–24
“Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Following Jesus requires surrender. To deny ourselves is not to reject our value (rather, we become more valuable as a child of God and a follower of Jesus), but to place Christ above our own desires, ambitions, and comforts, trusting the His ways are better and higher than ours. Daily discipleship means choosing God’s will over our own and trusting that His way leads to true life.
Putting It into Practice
Begin each day by surrendering your plans to God. Ask, “What would Jesus have me do today?” Be willing to sacrifice comfort, pride, or personal preference whenever obedience to Christ requires it. Learn to listen and obey to the voice of the Holy Spirit continually.
35. Watch Out for Greed
Luke 12:15
“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus warns that our lives are not measured by what we own. Greed quietly shifts our trust from God to possessions and leaves us constantly wanting more. True contentment is found in knowing Christ rather than accumulating wealth.
Putting It into Practice
Practise gratitude for what God has already provided. Resist the temptation to compare yourself with others. Hold your possessions lightly, remembering that everything you have ultimately belongs to God.
36. Give to Those Who Can’t Reciprocate
Luke 14:12–14
“When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind… although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Kingdom generosity expects nothing in return. Jesus encourages us to care especially for those who cannot repay our kindness. Such generosity reflects the grace that God has shown to us.
Putting It into Practice
Give freely to those in need without seeking recognition or reward. Support ministries that care for the vulnerable, show hospitality to those who are lonely, and let generosity become a natural expression of God’s love.
37. You Must Be Born Again
John 3:7
“You must be born again.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus teaches that becoming a Christian is more than adopting new beliefs or improving our behaviour. We need a spiritual rebirth brought about by the power of the Holy Spirit at work in us. Through faith in Christ, God gives us new life, a new heart, and a new identity as His children.
Putting It into Practice
If you have not yet placed your faith in Christ, trust Him today as your Saviour and Lord. If you have been born again, live each day in the confidence of your new identity. Depend upon the Holy Spirit who is working in you to transform you from the inside out.
38. If You Love Me, Keep My Commandments
John 14:15
“If you love Me, keep My commandments.”
What Jesus is Teaching
Jesus concludes by showing that obedience is the fruit of love. We do not obey to earn God’s acceptance; we obey because we have already experienced His grace. Love for Christ naturally expresses itself through joyful, willing obedience. Every command He gives is for our good and draws us into a deeper relationship with Him.
Putting It into Practice
Cultivate your love for Jesus through prayer, worship, and reading His Word. When you face decisions, ask yourself, “What would honour Christ?” Remember that obedience is not about perfection but about faithfully following the teachings and example of the One who first loved you.
Walking in the Way of Christ
Jesus’ commands are more than a list of rules—they are an invitation into a new way of life. As we learn His teachings, rely on the Holy Spirit, and put His words into practice, we become more like Him.
The Christian life is a lifelong journey of discipleship. We will not always obey these commands perfectly, but we follow a perfect Saviour who is patient, gracious, and faithful to complete the work He has begun in us.
May these commands encourage you to walk daily in the footsteps of Jesus, loving God, serving others, and living as a faithful citizen of His Kingdom until the day He returns.
“Everyone who hears these words of Mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” — Matthew 7:24