The context is the entire book of John. Whatever Jesus said would keep someone from death. Jesus expects obedience. I don’t see someone can be a non-disciple disciple of Jesus and expect to actually be a real Christian.
John 8
51Very truly I tell you, whoever obeys my word will never see death.”
John 14
23Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.
24Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
John 15
10If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.