“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34–35 ESV).
As Jesus prepared to leave His disciples, He gave them a clear and powerful commandment: love one another. This love is not merely a feeling or sentiment but a reflection of His own sacrificial, patient, and servant-hearted love. The standard is not left vague or open to interpretation. Jesus said, “Just as I have loved you.” The love of Jesus is the model and the measure. It is the kind of love that washes feet, bears burdens, forgives offenses, and lays down its life.
What is especially striking is the result of this love. Jesus says that this is how the world will recognize us as His disciples. Not by the eloquence of our preaching, the depth of our theology, or the strength of our arguments, but by the way we love one another. Love is the proof. Our witness to a watching world stands or falls on whether we obey this commandment. The world may not understand our doctrines or agree with our convictions, but it cannot ignore authentic, Christlike love.
We must ask ourselves—do we love one another like Jesus has loved us? Are we patient with each other’s weaknesses, quick to forgive, and eager to serve? Too often, we allow pride, division, or indifference to get in the way of love. If we are to be faithful witnesses, we must prioritize love within the body of Christ. Love is not optional for disciples; it is essential. Let us actively pursue ways to encourage, support, and care for one another. As we do, we display to the world the reality of Jesus in us.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for the love You have shown us through Jesus, Your Son. You loved us when we were unlovable and gave us grace upon grace. Pour Your love into our hearts today by the Holy Spirit. Teach us to love one another as Jesus has loved us. May our love be genuine, sacrificial, and visible, so that the world might know we are truly His disciples. In Jesus’ name, amen.