Ranking Jesus' Commands For Devoted Followers

The ranking of importance of the 17 one-word verbs used by Jesus is not explicitly stated in Scripture, but we can derive their significance from the biblical context. In Matthew 22:37-40, Jesus emphasizes the greatest commandment, which is to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind," and the second is to "love your neighbor as yourself." This highlights the importance of "Follow" and "Love" as foundational to a devoted Jesus-follower's life.

The verb "Repent" is also crucial, as seen in Matthew 4:17, where Jesus says, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." This call to repentance is a fundamental aspect of the gospel message, emphasizing the need for a change of heart and mind. Other verbs like "Believe" (John 3:16), "Seek" (Matthew 6:33), and "Pray" (Luke 18:1) are also essential, as they relate to one's relationship with God and growth in faith.

The ranking of importance may vary depending on the context and situation, but ultimately, all these verbs are interconnected and vital for a devoted Jesus-follower. They are not mutually exclusive, and each one complements the others in the pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ. As a Reformed theologian, it is essential to recognize that these verbs are not a list of works to be performed to earn salvation but rather a reflection of the transformative power of the gospel in the life of a believer.

In 1 John 2:3, the apostle writes, "And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments," emphasizing the importance of obedience and following Christ's teachings. This underscores the gospel connection, where the love of Christ compels believers to obey and follow Him, demonstrating their devotion and faith. As the Westminster Shorter Catechism states, "The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever," and these verbs, in their various ways, contribute to this ultimate goal.