Janowe „έντολή”

Abstract

As we read the writings of St. John, we often come across a statement in which the inspired author speaks on keeping God's commandment – έντολή. This command demands in itself obedience and implementation. The present entry contains an analysis of all the passages of St. John's literature, where this term is to be found. It also presents a depth of his theological thinking. In the Gospel one can perceive the example of Jesus who fulfilled the Father's command in a perfect way. He Himself teaches a man how to love God and his neighbor. It is the attitude of love that has its origin in the faith in Jesus – the Son of God. However, a human being must persevere in obeying God's commandment, for evil fights those who follow them (Ap 12,17). According to Apocalypse, such adherence to God's commandments determines our way to sanctification. Only once, the word έντολή is used in John's literarture – when it is related to human decisions made by Archpreise and Pharisees (οί άρχιερεις καί οί φαρισαιοι – J 11,57).