The concept of loving one another is central to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Christian faith. In John 13:35, Jesus gives his disciples a new commandment – to love one another just as he has loved them. This verse highlights the importance of Christians demonstrating selfless, sacrificial love towards fellow believers. But what exactly does it mean for Christians to love one another? Let’s explore this significant biblical principle.
Love as Christ Loved
Firstly, Jesus specifies that his followers must love “as I have loved you” (John 13:34). This indicates that Christian love must be modeled after Christ’s love. How did Jesus love? He loved humbly and selflessly. He always put others first and was willing to serve any person in need (Mark 10:45). Jesus loved unconditionally, never discriminating based on outward appearances (Luke 7:36-50). He forgave readily, even forgiving those who crucified him (Luke 23:34). Jesus’ love was characterized by sacrifice, even to the point of giving his life for others (John 15:13). Loving as Christ loved means reflecting his sacrificial, servant-hearted, unconditional love in our relationships.
Love for Fellow Believers
Secondly, this commandment specifies love towards “one another.” Jesus gave this teaching to his disciples, implying that Christians should have a special love for their fellow believers. This brotherly and sisterly love stems from the spiritual connection believers share through Christ (Romans 12:10, Hebrews 13:1). It involves belonging to one community united under Christ (Galatians 3:28). Practically, it looks like bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), encouraging each other (1 Thessalonians 5:11), praying for each other (James 5:16), and stirring each other to do good works (Hebrews 10:24). Brotherly love recognizes that, as believers, we are all part of God’s family.
Mark of a Disciple
Thirdly, Jesus links this love to discipleship, stating “by this all people will know that you are my disciples” (John 13:35). Our love is a distinguishing mark of a genuine Christian. It provides witness to the world and reflects the light of Christ (Matthew 5:14-16, John 13:35). When believers have fervent, active love for one another, it testifies to the life-changing power of the gospel. Our unity and love point people to Christ.
How to Love One Another
Learning to walk in Christlike love takes intentionality and reliance on the Spirit. Here are some key ways we can love fellow Christians:
- Build fellowship and community (Acts 2:42)
- Serve one another humbly (Galatians 5:13)
- Encourage each other (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
- Pray for one another (James 5:16)
- Forgive one another (Colossians 3:13)
- Speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)
- Bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2)
- Be patient and kind (1 Corinthians 13:4)
- Stir each other to righteousness (Hebrews 10:24)
- Administer grace to each other (Ephesians 4:29)
Why We Must Love One Another
The Bible gives many reasons why loving one another is essential:
- It was Christ’s command (John 13:34)
- It identifies us as Christ’s disciples (John 13:35)
- It follows Christ’s example of love (John 13:34)
- It reflects God’s love in us (1 John 4:12)
- It fulfills the greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-40)
- It produces unity and community (1 Peter 3:8)
- It serves others (Galatians 5:13)
- It overcomes differences and division (Colossians 3:14)
- It is a mark of spiritual maturity (1 John 4:20-21)
Loving fellow believers is neither optional nor secondary. Jesus calls it a direct command for all who follow him. And it is impossible to obey apart from his enabling grace at work within us.
Challenges in Loving One Another
While biblical love is commanded, expressing Christlike love is not always easy. Christians will face these challenges:
- Pride – This elevates self over others. But love humbles self to serve.
- Selfishness – This prioritizes personal desires. But love seeks to meet another’s needs.
- Judgment – This focuses on others’ flaws. But love sees past flaws to value a person.
- Misunderstandings – These can spark conflict. But love forgives and pursues unity.
- Differing Opinions – These threaten harmony. But love still shows kindness despite disagreement.
Navigating such challenges requires abiding in Christ, drawing strength from the Spirit, humility, and commitment to the body of Christ. Our human love will always be imperfect. But it can reflect Christ’s perfect love.
The Fruit of Loving One Another
When Christians walk in fervent brotherly love, rich fruit results both individually and corporately:
- It brings glory to God (John 13:35)
- It testifies to Christ’s love (John 17:21-23)
- It promotes unity (Colossians 3:14)
- It fosters spiritual growth as believers sharpen one another (Proverbs 27:17)
- It meets needs and enables ministry (Acts 2:45, Galatians 6:2)
- It offers support amidst suffering (2 Corinthians 1:3-7)
- It inspires and encourages (Hebrews 10:24-25)
- It gives witness to the gospel (John 13:35)
This blessed fruit nourishes the Body of Christ and ultimately glorifies God as the source of love. Our world craves real love. As Christians walk in sincere love for each other, it provides a glimpse of God’s kingdom and draws people to Christ.
Empowered to Love
Christlike love flows from God’s own love poured into our hearts (Romans 5:5). Through Christ’s salvation, the Holy Spirit empowers us to love. Abiding in God’s presence fills us with His supernatural love. The more we receive His love, the more we can pour it out upon others (1 John 4:19). We love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). Only through the Spirit’s sustaining grace can we walk in this Christlike love that reflects God’s heart to a broken world.
In John 13:35 Jesus gives his disciples a clear directive – to love one another just as he loved them. This command has profound significance for Christians today. Our mutual love must be modeled after Christ’s sacrificial example, recognizing fellow believers as spiritual brothers and sisters. Though not always easy, loving one another springs from God’s own love and follows Christ’s example. It is a primary mark of Christian discipleship. Despite imperfections, our sincere efforts to love each other provide a witness that points the world to Christ. Through the Spirit’s enabling power, may our lives overflow with love that glorifies God.