Scripture Passage: John 15:12-17
Scripture Focus: John 15: 17
“This I command you, that you love one another.”
In John, Jesus has a rather lengthy talk with His disciples before they leave for the garden. To me, this is some of the richest text in all of Scripture. There is my Savior praying for me, letting me know how to manage living a Godly life, how to accomplish His will for my life. He gives the promise of the Spirit. He prays for our unity. He encourages us that it is a good thing if we are hated by the world for His sake. And He gives us a command.
Don’t allow the significance of what takes place escape us here. Jesus gave a command. This is a role that is reserved for God. Sure, man issued law on top of law, but it was not authoritative, and we are freed from that horrible brand of legalism. But true commandments came from God. And here, just before His death, Jesus affirms His deity.
Second, His command is simple, but many times unaccomplished. He commands us to love one another. The idea is simple, but the completion is hard. What if they are different from us? What if they are not a part of our group of friends? What if they are not on the same status level that we are? What if this is costly to me? The list could go on and on. We, as a body of believers, are called to love one another. Sometimes this is the hardest love. Love for our “siblings” can be extremely difficult. However, we must question ourselves; will the world ever experience the love of Christ if we can’t love amongst ourselves first?
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