Why is keeping the commandments important for Christians?

In Matthew 19:17, Jesus tells the rich young ruler that to enter life, he must keep the commandments. This statement highlights that obedience to God's law is not merely a ritual obligation but a response of love. John 14:15 states, 'If you love Me, keep My commandments.' Therefore, keeping commandments serves as evidence of our relationship with God.

However, it's vital to understand that perfect obedience is unattainable in our sinful state. Galatians 3:10 warns that those who rely on the law for righteousness are under a curse, emphasizing the need for reliance on Christ's fulfillment of the law on our behalf. Thus, while we strive to keep the commandments, our ultimate peace and assurance of salvation come from Christ's obedience, not our own. Our efforts to keep God’s commandments should, therefore, stem from gratitude and love, recognizing that Christ is our righteousness.