The idea of laying down one's life, stated in the next verse, means something more constant than a single act. Our approach to others, especially between fellow Christians (1 John 4:20–21), should be characterized by those traits. This means humility (John 13:6), sacrifice (John 15:13), and service (John 13:35). Second, we are meant to echo the nature of Christ's love. But, even when it doesn't, the command to "love" remains. Affection will sometimes grow as we serve others. When this evening of discussion and teaching began, Jesus initiated it with an act of love: washing the feet of the disciples (John 13:3–5). We don't need to "feel warm thoughts" for others, but we do need to act lovingly towards them, even when they're hostile to us (Romans 12:17–21 Matthew 5:43–48). This involves two main ideas.įirst, we should realize the "love" Jesus speaks of is practical, not emotional. Rather, our love needs to echo the character of Christ's love. Psalm 82:2-4 How long will you defend the unjust and show partiality to the wicked Defend the cause of the weak and the fatherless maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. But Jesus is not telling believers "feel about other people the way I do." Nor is He demanding we be sinlessly, infallibly perfect. So far as we can, we want to respond to other people in a Christlike way. Of course, His life and conduct are a born-again believer's goal (John 13:15). John 15:17 Verse Concepts This I command you, that you love one another. John 13:34 Verse Concepts A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. However, that is not what Christ means in this statement. 36 Bible Verses about Loving One Another John 15:12 This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. The prospect of martyrdom can be terrifying (John 15:13). The thought that we're obligated to feel perfect, joyful affection towards others is daunting. Worse, it can seem impossible: as fallible people, we don't always feel happy thoughts about others, even fellow Christians. Christ was sinless and perfect (Hebrews 4:15), so when He commands us to love each other the way He loved us, it's challenging. It's tempting to read this edict from Jesus Christ with discouragement. Among the more crucial commands given by Jesus is the requirement for believers to love one another (John 13:34). In that discussion, Jesus reiterated that obedience to His teachings is an expected sign of those who truly believe (John 14:15). In prior verses, Jesus used the analogy of a vine and branches to explain how behavior signifies a relationship with Him (John 15:1–11).
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