Love One Another

LOVE ONE ANOTHER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 13:34-35 – “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”

Supporting Texts: 1 John 4:7-8, Romans 12:9-10, Colossians 3:14, 1 Corinthians 13:1-8, Matthew 5:44

INTRODUCTION:

The command to love one another is not optional in the Christian faith; it is central to our identity as disciples of Jesus Christ. In a world filled with hatred, division, and selfish ambition, Jesus calls His followers to a higher standard—one that reflects His love and nature.

Jesus gave this command not as a suggestion, but as a new commandment that transcends the old by raising the bar: “as I have loved you.” This love is sacrificial, unconditional, and visible. It is a love that goes beyond words into action, serving and uplifting others, even those who don’t deserve it.

The distinguishing mark of true discipleship is not the ability to preach, prophesy, or perform miracles—it is love. When we love one another deeply and genuinely, the world takes notice and sees Christ in us. Let us explore what it truly means to love one another.

1. LOVE IS A DIVINE COMMAND, NOT A HUMAN SUGGESTION

Jesus commands love, not as an option, but as the heartbeat of Christian life and community.

a) It is rooted in the example of Christ's love

Jesus laid down His life for us; we are to love with the same intensity (John 15:13).

b) Obedience to this command proves our loyalty to Christ

Love for others demonstrates that we walk in His ways (1 John 2:5).

c) This love is not based on feelings but on willful action

We choose to love even when it’s inconvenient (Colossians 3:14).

d) Failure to love is disobedience to Christ

A loveless Christian life is an empty testimony (1 John 4:20-21).

Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan loved beyond race, religion, and risk—he obeyed the heart of God (Luke 10:30-37).

2. LOVE REVEALS OUR DISCIPLESHIP TO THE WORLD

The world will know we are Christ’s followers when we love one another visibly and genuinely.

a) Love is the evidence of true conversion

If we are born of God, love becomes our nature (1 John 4:7-8).

b) It draws others to Christ

When believers love one another, unbelievers are compelled to seek the source.

c) Love binds the Church in unity

It fosters peace, cooperation, and mutual care in the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:2-3).

d) Love defuses strife and promotes forgiveness

It covers a multitude of sins and stops bitterness before it grows (1 Peter 4:8).

Biblical Example: The early Church had all things in common and loved each other deeply—this drew many to salvation (Acts 2:42-47).

3. LOVE SEEKS THE GOOD OF OTHERS ABOVE SELF

True love is selfless—it places others before personal desires or gain.

a) It gives, even when it costs

Love always involves sacrifice, as shown by Christ (John 3:16).

b) It honours and respects others

Genuine love values the dignity and worth of others (Romans 12:10).

c) It is patient and kind in every situation

Love is not easily provoked or rude (1 Corinthians 13:4-5).

d) It serves without seeking praise

Love finds joy in lifting others up (Galatians 5:13).

Biblical Example: Ruth loved Naomi selflessly, choosing to stay with her and serve her, even in hardship (Ruth 1:16-17).

4. LOVE IS THE FULFILLMENT OF GOD’S LAW

Every command God gave is summarised in love—towards Him and towards others.

a) Love is the foundation of all commandments

Jesus said all the law hangs on love (Matthew 22:37-40).

b) Love replaces legalism with grace

It goes beyond rules and enters the realm of relationship.

c) It ensures we do no harm to our neighbours

Love fulfils righteousness by seeking the good of others (Romans 13:10).

d) Love liberates, it does not oppress

When we walk in love, we live in spiritual freedom (Galatians 5:14).

Biblical Example: Joseph showed love to his brothers who wronged him, forgiving them and caring for their needs (Genesis 50:20-21).

5. LOVE ENDURES AND NEVER FAILS

Among all Christian virtues, love remains eternal and unstoppable.

a) Love sustains relationships through trials

It is long-suffering and refuses to give up (1 Corinthians 13:7).

b) Love grows stronger with time

As we mature in Christ, our love should deepen.

c) Love is not seasonal or circumstantial

It remains consistent regardless of mood or weather (Song of Songs 8:7).

d) Love outlives gifts, talents, and positions

Prophecies and tongues will cease, but love abides forever (1 Corinthians 13:8).

Biblical Example: Jesus loved His disciples to the end, even washing their feet before His betrayal (John 13:1-5).