God's love does not depend on you keeping the rules...?

So, I am quote-ish-ing (which means it was something close to that but maybe not word for word) a sermon from two weeks ago that I did not hear but my husband did. (I actually heard the sermon later and John did not say it that time.) Anyway, the idea of rules is an ongoing discussion between Troy and I. We disagree (usually peacefully) about whether or not God has rules.
If you know us at all, you may have figured out where each of us falls in the debate...you may have even heard (or taken part in) one of our discussions on the subject. I think that God has a way of life that we can choose or not. If we choose His way, we should remain in that way. Troy thinks that God has a list of Dos and Don'ts. I think that when you understand grace and freedom in Christ seeing that the Word points out the way to experience abundant life and following out of love for Him is easy. Troy thinks that God has standards that we must/should try to keep.
John's statement interests me because it doesn't really confirm either side. While it does mention rules, it implies that it is not necessary to keep them. The more I turn it over in my mind the more it makes me want to agree with Troy. (don't get too excited, T) Here's the thing...God will love you if you keep the rules or not. His Word says that He died for us when we were still sinners. But His acceptance certainly comes after we follow some guidelines...steps...boundaries...rules He has decided upon. We must do something to be accepted. Repent, believe, confess, baptize...whether you believe you must do some or all of those, you have to agree you must do something. Beyond choosing Him once, you must continue to daily pick up your cross and follow to remain in Him. So, does following Him mean following the rules...?

the discussion continues