The Wisdom of Turning to Jesus
Here’s a detailed sermon on the wisdom of turning to Jesus and expressing our love for Him through obedience to His commandments. This sermon is designed to be approximately 25–30 minutes long, with step-by-step instructions, examples, and relevant Scripture references.
Title: “The Wisdom of Turning to Jesus and Loving Him Through Obedience”
Introduction:
Brothers and sisters, today we gather to reflect on a profound truth — that true wisdom lies in turning our hearts to Jesus Christ and expressing our love for Him through obedience. Our Lord Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). To follow Him is to walk in wisdom, for He is the source of all true wisdom and love.
Main Scripture:
John 14:15 — “If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
This verse encapsulates the core of our message today. Loving Jesus is not merely a feeling but is demonstrated through active obedience to His commandments. Let’s explore how we can practically turn to Jesus and show our love for Him in our daily lives.
1. Recognize the Wisdom of Turning to Jesus
Step 1: Understand the importance of turning to Jesus
Jesus is the source of life, truth, and salvation (John 14:6).
Turning to Him means seeking His presence, guidance, and strength above all else.
Example:
Imagine walking in darkness, feeling lost and uncertain. Turning to Jesus is like turning on a light that reveals the way. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart…and he shall direct thy paths.”
Application:
Make a conscious choice daily to seek Jesus through prayer, reading Scripture, and worship. Recognize that wisdom begins with humility and dependence on Christ.
2. Cultivate a Loving Relationship with Jesus
Step 2: Develop love for Jesus through personal devotion
Love for Jesus grows as we spend time with Him.
Read His Word, meditate on His life and teachings, and pray from the heart.
Example:
Think of a close friendship — the more you communicate and share, the deeper the bond. Similarly, our relationship with Jesus deepens through consistent prayer and Bible study.
Scripture:
John 15:9 — “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.”
Application:
Set aside daily devotional time, expressing your love for Jesus through praise and thanksgiving.
3. Obey Jesus’ Commandments as an Expression of Love
Step 3: Understand obedience as love in action
Obedience is the natural response to love.
Jesus’ commandments are given for our good, to guide us in love and righteousness.
Example:
Consider the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) — Jesus commands us to make disciples. Obeying this is a loving act of sharing His love with others.
Scripture:
John 14:15 — “If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
Application:
Identify specific commandments in Scripture (e.g., love your neighbor, forgive others, serve the needy) and intentionally practice them.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions for Obedience
Step 4: Practical steps to obey and express love
a) Pray for guidance:
Begin each day asking Jesus for strength and wisdom to obey His commands.
“Lord, help me to love You by obeying Your Word today.”
b) Study the Scriptures:
Regularly read and meditate on passages that teach obedience and love.
Example: 1 John 5:3 — “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments.”
c) Put into practice what you learn:
Take specific actions that reflect Jesus’ teachings.
Example: If Jesus commands to love your neighbor (Matthew 22:39), act kindly and generously.
d) Confess and repent:
When you fall short, confess sins and seek forgiveness (1 John 1:9).
This demonstrates humility and a desire to obey.
e) Share your faith:
Express love for Jesus by telling others about His love and salvation.
Mark 16:15 — “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel…”
5. Examples of Loving Obedience in Action
Serving others:** Volunteering at a shelter or helping a neighbor in need.
Forgiving:** Letting go of grudges and forgiving those who hurt you (Matthew 6:14-15).
Living a holy life:** Making choices that honor God in your daily conduct.
6. The Blessings of Obedience and Turning to Jesus
Obedience is not burdensome but brings peace, joy, and divine favor (John 15:10).
Turning to Jesus and loving Him results in spiritual growth and eternal life (John 3:16).
Our obedience becomes a testimony to others of His love and wisdom.
7. Encouragement and Call to Action
Brothers and sisters, turning to Jesus and obeying His commandments is the wisest choice we can make. It is rooted in love and leads to abundant life. Remember, Jesus said in Revelation 3:20 — “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him…”
I invite each of us today to open our hearts anew, commit to loving Jesus through obedience, and walk in the wisdom He provides.
Conclusion:
Let us close with a prayer, asking Jesus to strengthen our love for Him and help us obey His commandments with joy and sincerity.
Sample Prayer:
“Lord Jesus, we thank You for Your love and wisdom. Help us to turn to You daily, to love You sincerely, and to obey Your commands. May our lives be a testimony of Your love and grace. Empower us by Your Spirit to walk in obedience, and may we find joy in serving You. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.”
Final Word:
Remember, brothers and sisters, true wisdom begins with turning to Jesus and expressing our love for Him through obedience. As we do so, we walk in the light, grow in grace, and fulfill our purpose in Him.