In Christian theology, a restored relationship with God through Jesus Christ involves both faith in Jesus and following His commandments. Here is how these two aspects are interconnected and necessary for Christian life:

Faith in Jesus

Faith is essential for salvation and for entering into a restored relationship with God. In the New Testament, faith is emphasized as the foundation for Christian life.

John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

Faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of the world is the essential first step. Through faith, people accept God's saving grace and enter into a personal relationship with Him.

Following Jesus' Commandments

Once someone believes in Jesus, this authentic faith will manifest through obedience to His commandments and a transformed life.

John 14:15: "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

John 15:10: "If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love."

1 John 2:3-6: "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked."

Faith and Works

Authentic faith produces good works and a life in accordance with Jesus' teachings. This does not mean that works are the source of salvation, but they are the evidence of true faith.

James 2:17: "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."

Imitating Jesus

Following Jesus' commandments also means living according to His example. Christians are called to imitate the life and character of Jesus, showing love, mercy, compassion, and obedience to God's will.

1 Peter 2:21: "For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps."

Conclusion

A restored relationship with God through Jesus involves both aspects: faith in Jesus Christ and following His commandments. True faith manifests through a life of obedience and imitation of Jesus. Faith initiates the relationship with God, and obedience and living according to Jesus' commandments demonstrate the authenticity of this relationship and deepen communion with God. This combination of faith and works is essential for a full and true Christian life.