How do we know obedience is important for Christians?

In John 14:21, Jesus states, 'He who has my commandments and keeps them is he who loves me.' This demonstrates that obedience is not merely optional but intrinsic to a genuine relationship with Christ. True faith in Christ translates into action; if we claim to love Him, our lives will reflect His teachings. The commandments Jesus refers to extend beyond mere lawkeeping; they encompass the command to believe in Him and love one another, as articulated in 1 John 3:23. This duality of faith and love is vital to the believer's life and stands as the mark of true discipleship.