The Narrow Way

Imagine a child who deeply loves their parent. The parent gives the child guidance, not to control them, but to help them make good choices and stay safe. The child, out of love and trust, follows their parent’s instructions—not because they are forced to, but because they know their parent cares for them and wants what’s best. The child’s obedience is a reflection of their love and respect for the parent.

In the same way, John 14:15 teaches us that if we love Jesus, we will keep His commandments. Just like the child who follows their parent’s guidance out of love, we are called to obey Jesus’ teachings as an expression of our love for Him. Our obedience comes from a heart that trusts and loves God.

Breaking Down the Analogy

1. The Child Represents Us as Followers of Christ
   The child symbolizes us as we walk in relationship with Jesus. Just as the child follows their parent’s guidance out of love, we are called to follow Christ’s commandments because we love Him and trust His wisdom.
2. The Parent Represents God
   The parent in the analogy represents God, who gives us His commandments not to control us but to lead us toward a fulfilling and meaningful life. Just as the parent guides the child for their well-being, God’s commandments are given out of love for us.
3. Following the Parent’s Instructions Represents Obedience to God’s Commandments
   The child’s obedience to the parent’s instructions represents our obedience to God’s commandments. Just as the child’s actions reflect their love for the parent, our obedience to Jesus’ teachings is a way we show our love for Him.
4. The Parent’s Care Represents God’s Love and Desire for Our Good
   The parent’s care for the child’s well-being represents God’s love for us. Just as the parent gives guidance to protect and care for the child, God’s commandments are meant to guide us into a life of peace, joy, and fulfillment.

Lesson from the Analogy

John 14:15 teaches us that if we love Jesus, we will keep His commandments. Like a child who follows a parent’s guidance out of love, we show our love for God by obeying His commandments. This verse reminds us that our obedience is not about following rules for the sake of it, but about expressing our love and trust in Jesus. Just as a child obeys a parent because they know the parent loves them and wants what’s best, we follow Jesus’ teachings as an act of love, knowing that His commandments are given for our good and to draw us closer to Him.