God says
Say (O Prophet to mankind): “If you love God, follow me and God will love you” and forgive you your sins.\; for God is much forgiving, and most gracious. Q.3:31
…those who shall follow the (last) apostle, the unlettered Prophet whom they shall find described in Torah that is with them, and (later on) in the Gospel: (the Prophet) who will enjoin upon them the doing of what is right and forbid them the doing of what is wrong, and make lawful to them the good things of life and forbid them the bad things, and lift from them their burdens and the shackles that were upon them [aforetime]*
Those, therefore, who shall believe in him, and honour him, and succour him, and follow the light that he has been bestowed from on high through him – it is they who shall attain to a happy state. -- Q7: 157
*A reference to the many severe rituals and obligations laid down in Mosaic law, and to the tendency towards asceticism evident in the teachings of the Gospels.
…and follow him [i.e., the Prophet], so that you might find guidance! -- Q7: 158
Prophet said
‘Whoever loves my way loves me, and whoever loves me will be in paradise with me’ -- H: Tirmizi. N: Anas.
“Two attributes though easy for man (to adopt) will be very heavy, (indeed), in God’s scale on the Resurrection Day: To remain mostly silent (of frivolous talk) and (to be of) good conduct. By Him who holds my life, as for actions, these attributes have no parallel for mankind.” – H: Baihaqi. N: Anas.
