To wrap up the study in Philippians I did a review of the epistle is a non-traditional way. We actually used John chapter 14 verses 15 to 31. These are Jesus words of comfort to His disciples. Though he is going to his death, he is not abandoning them as orphans, but he promises to send the Holy Spirit (the "Helper", the "Counselor"). Similarly we are not left abandoned, but we too are given the Holy Sprit.

This passage is an incredible source of encouragement, as Jesus reassures his disciples of the Counselor that will come. But when I read it again there where two things that stood out that I knew would need some time to digest.

First, the entire discourse begins with an "if" statement. All of it begins with Love. He first loved us, and if we love him in return then we receive all these great promises. Our love for him is made tangible by our obedience to him. But we are also given His Holy Sprit that we may love him deeper as well as have the guidance and help to be obedient.

Secondly, verse 21 takes this truth a step further. Not only does it reiterate the truth that our love for God and our obedience to Him are intrinsically linked, but it ends with the most beautiful picture. "...The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and will reveal myself to him.". Love and obedience are tired together, but the one who loves Jesus also loves the Father and is loved, but even more that that Jesus reveals himself to that person. Our love for Jesus, our love that is made tangible by our obedience to him, brings us into an incredible intimacy with him. He says he will reveal himself to us.

If we want that intimacy with him, we need to live in loving obedience toward him. When we stop loving him by being disobedient to Him, we loose that intimacy, we hurt the relationship.