Jesus Obeyed the 1st and 2nd Commandments (Matthew 22:34-40)
Introduction:
1. On this occasion Jesus was asked to identify "the great commandment in the law." 2. The Lord responded by identifying the 1st and 2nd commandments. a. The 1st is to love God with all the heart, soul, and mind. b. The 2nd is to love our neighbors as ourselves. c. These 2 commandments sum up the Law of Moses as well as the writings of the prophets. 3. This morning we are emphasizing the fact that Jesus obeyed these commandments Himself. 4. According to Acts 1:1, Jesus practiced what He preached [Luke mentioned his gospel in which he wrote about "all that Jesus began both to do and teach"]. 5. By examining the Lord's example we are better able to understand what He requires of us.
Discussion:
I. JESUS OBEYED THE 1ST COMMANDMENT
A. This commandment involves loving God. B. The Lord knew that the Father loved Him (John 10:17; 17:24). C. The Lord expressed His love for the Father (John 14:31). D. The Lord's love for the Father can be known by the world through His submission to the Father's will (John 15:10). E. In addition to loving the Father and demonstrating it by obeying the Father's commands, . . .
II. JESUS OBEYED THE 2ND COMMANDMENT
A. This commandment involves loving neighbors. B. Throughout His ministry Jesus showed how much He loved His neighbors. C. The Lord loved: 1. the rich young ruler (Mark 10:21) 2. His enemies (Luke 23:34) 3. Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (John 11:5, 36) 4. His disciples (John 13:1, 34; 15:9, 12) 5. John (John 19:26-27) 6. the church (Ephesians 5:25) 7. us (Ephesians 5:2; Romans 8:35-39; Revelation 1:4-6).
Conclusion:
1. We have seen that Jesus obeyed the 1st and 2nd commandments. 2. Studying His example helps us understand what He requires of us. 3. For a final thought, Jesus showed in John 14:21 who really loves Him.
