“leads to” (NIV) = “is” (KJV) = esti (Greek) is third person singular of the verb “to be”. This is properly translated in KJV and not in the NIV (in the opinion of many scholars). The Father’s command does not “lead” to eternal life, nor does keeping it bring eternal life. The commandment is life eternal. It is His love acting upon us for our salvation. Temple notes, “His commandment is not a stark precept given by supreme authority; it is direction given by almighty love . . . it is the impact of His holy love upon our consciences and wills.”

Notice that “Jesus is not a figure of independent greatness; he is the Word of God, or he is nothing at all” (Barrett).