Go! And Love One Another John 13:34-35
Introduction:
Love is at the very heart of Christianity. Jesus made it clear that love is not just a suggestion but a command. In John 13:34-35 (NLT), Jesus says: “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
Jesus’ words challenge us to live in a way that reflects His love. Today, we will explore what it means to love one another as Christ has loved us.
1. Love is Commanded by Christ
John 13:34 (NLT) – “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.”
The Greek word for “commandment” here is entole (??t???), which signifies an authoritative decree. This is not optional; it is a divine mandate.
In the context of this passage, Jesus was speaking to His disciples during the Last Supper. He had just washed their feet, demonstrating humility and servanthood. This commandment to love one another is directly tied to His example.
Our love must be active, sacrificial, and reflective of Christ’s love. Are we treating others with the same humility and grace Jesus has shown us?
“Jesus’ love was self-giving and sacrificial; our love should be the same.” – John Piper
2. Love is a Mark of True Discipleship
John 13:35 (NLT) – “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
The word for “prove” here is ginosko (????s??), meaning to be recognized or known. Jesus is saying that love is the identifying mark of His followers.
The early church embodied this love, sharing their possessions and caring for each other (Acts 2:44-47). Their love made them stand out in a world filled with division and self-interest.
Does the world see Christ in the way we love? Are we demonstrating unity, kindness, and forgiveness in our relationships?
The Roman historian Tertullian noted how the early Christians were known for their love, writing, “See how they love one another!”
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Rick Warren
3. Love is Sacrificial
John 15:13 (NLT) – “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
The Greek word for love here is agape (???p?), which represents selfless, sacrificial love. Jesus’ love was fully demonstrated on the cross.
Loving as Jesus loves means putting others before ourselves. This might mean giving up our time, resources, or personal comfort for the sake of others.
“Real love is not about how much we give, but how much we sacrifice.” – Francis Chan
4. Love is Forgiving
Colossians 3:13 (NLT) – “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”
The Greek word for forgive, charizomai (?a????µa?), implies grace and undeserved favor. Just as God has forgiven us, we are called to forgive others.
Is there someone you need to forgive today? Holding onto bitterness hinders love.
Corrie ten Boom forgave a Nazi guard who had wronged her family, showing the power of Christ’s forgiveness.
“Forgiveness is unlocking the door to set someone free and realizing you were the prisoner.” – Max Lucado
5. Love is Active
1 John 3:18 (NLT) – “Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.”
The word for “show” is ergon (?????), meaning work or deed. Love is more than words—it is lived out in action.
Are we actively showing love? Love is displayed in kindness, generosity, and service.
The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) didn’t just feel compassion; he acted.
“Love is not just a feeling; it is a commitment.” – David Jeremiah
Conclusion: A Call to Love as Christ Loves
Loving as Jesus commands is not always easy, but it is the defining characteristic of a Christian. Today, let’s commit to:
Loving as Jesus loves
Forgiving as Jesus forgives
Serving as Jesus serves
Living love out in action
Call to Action:
Ask God to help you love those around you with a Christ-like love.
Invitation to Faith:
If you have never experienced the love of Christ personally, today is your opportunity. Romans 10:9 (NLT) says, “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Jesus loves you and invites you into a relationship with Him today.
Let us go and love as Christ loves!
