Jesus offers a profound promise to his followers: that love and obedience open the door to a relationship with God. Jesus isn’t simply talking about knowing about God, but about experiencing God’s presence in a profoundly personal way. The words “make our home with them” speak of a lasting, relational presence—not a passing visit, but a permanent dwelling.
Many
people see Jesus’ words here as putting obedience first. They argue that if we obey Jesus, God will love us. However, I think the opposite is more true. Once we realise that God already loves us, our obedience to Jesus will naturally follow.
Obedience here isn’t about earning God’s favour. Instead, it’s the natural response of a heart that loves God and is already grateful for the grace they have received. When we love Jesus, our actions align with his teachings,
not out of duty, but out of devotion. In return, we are drawn into deeper fellowship with God.
The last line of this verse contains an amazing truth: the Creator of the universe chooses to make their home in us! This changes everything. It means we are never alone. It means our ordinary lives can become sacred places where God is always present.
How can we grow in showing our love for Jesus through our daily actions? What does it
mean to us that God wants to make a home in us?
Reflections by Joe Taylor
