THEOSISAntiochus of Palestine
Observing the commandments leads humanity into the realm of life, while violating them brings death. This is clearly articulated in the Holy Scriptures. Had we not initially rebelled against the directive in Eden, we would not have been reminded, “Thou art dust, and unto dust shalt thou return” (Genesis 3:19), and the world would have been free from the tyranny it has endured for ages. No one who disregards God’s commandments can truly live righteously. Saul, who defied God’s directive, experienced a life filled with troubles and ultimately lost his reign (see 1 Chron. 10:13). The sons of Eli, Ophni and Phinehas, ignored their father’s counsel, leading the ark of God into enemy hands, which resulted in their tragic demise along with the people (see 1 Kings 4:17).
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Therefore, the Lord calls out through Ezekiel: “Cast away from you all your transgressions ... and do all My commandments; and why will ye die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 18:31), “Turn from your wicked ways; and why will you die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 33:11). The Law states: "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God,” and concludes with “Ye shall be My holy people” (Ex. 22:31); if you walk in My ways and keep My commandments (cf. Zech. 3:7), “I will walk among you, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people” (Lev. 26:12), says the Lord. Thus, we, too, if we fulfill His will, walk in His commandments, and cherish what He cherishes, become His temple (cf. 1 Cor. 3:16). Those who hold love for Him and their neighbor distance themselves from sin and are loved by God in return. When we disrespect Him, He is aware and knows how to correct those who violate His sacred commandments. Therefore, let us not cause our good God—who is kind, compassionate, holy, pure, blameless, immaculate, immaterial, unique, united, unchanging, truthful, unearned, and eternal—any grief. May He find joy in those who live righteously, may He delight in our purity, may He find rest in our dignified conduct, and may He rejoice in our love for Him and our perfect self-control and chastity. If we earnestly strive to fulfill God's commandments, grace will illuminate our perceptions and thoughts, kindling within us a fire of love and granting our hearts a profound peace. This grace will prepare us to contemplate spiritual matters instead of earthly ones.