Why is the concept of 'keeping His word' important for Christians?

In the context of John 17, keeping His word refers to the act of belief in Jesus Christ and His teachings. It is not merely about obeying commandments but about genuine faith that acknowledges and receives the truth of the Gospel. Jesus emphasized that His followers are those who have received His words and believed in Him, signifying that true faith manifests in recognizing Christ's authority and accepting His grace. This understanding of keeping His word reinforces the relational aspect of salvation where belief is evidence of being chosen by God.