We continue our series on the commands of Jesus Christ. This week, we turn to a command that Jesus called His “new command.” In John 13:34–35, Jesus told His disciples, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
This command was given on the night before Jesus died. It was not a suggestion. It was not optional. It was the defining mark of His followers. Jesus did not say, “Love one another as you love yourself.” He said, “Love one another as I have loved you.” That is a much higher standard. It is a sacrificial, self-giving, unconditional love that reflects the heart of God.
First, love is the mark of true discipleship.
Jesus said that the world would recognize His disciples not by their theology, their church attendance, or their moral behavior but by their love for one another. This is a powerful reality. The church is meant to be a community of love. It is a family where brothers and sisters care for one another, forgive one another, and serve one another. When the world sees Christians loving each other, it sees the love of Christ.
Love is not optional for the follower of Christ. It is the evidence of our faith. It is the proof that we belong to Him.
Second, love is sacrificial and practical.
Jesus said, “Love one another as I have loved you.” How did Jesus love? He gave His life. He loved not in words only but in action. This is the model for our love.
Loving one another is not about feelings. It is about actions. It is being patient with difficult people. It is forgiving those who hurt us. It is sharing our resources with those in need. It is speaking truth in love. It is bearing one another’s burdens. This kind of love is costly. But it is the love that changes lives and transforms communities.
Let us make our churches places where love is real and visible. And let us remember the promise of Jesus: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” | NWI
