“Love one another.” (John 13:34) This command is given 15 times in the New Testament. Over and over again, we, as Believers, are commanded to love one another. It is one of the most oft-repeated directives in all of Holy Scripture.
We should love one another because Christ first loved us. (1 John 4:19) Jesus’ love was shed abroad through His life, ministry, death, and resurrection. He loved us when we were far from Him. (Romans 5:8-11) Therefore, we should love one another as God has loved us. Christ’s love for us should serve as an impetus for loving our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Let us also love one another because it reflects the character of God. The Scriptures teach us that “God is love.” (1 John 4:8) Love is not optional if we desire to accurately reflect the truth of God as we seek to minister and witness to the lost. Our love for one another is a most powerful “proof” that we are in Christ. (John 13:35) People can argue with many things. But, they can’t argue with our love for one another when it is portrays the nature of God.
We ultimately love one another because it is commanded by the Word of God. The command is clear and direct. If we are Christians who take the Scriptures seriously, we must love our fellow believers.
Yes, we are called to love all people. Learning to love all people begins with learning to love our fellow Christian. It is not always easy, but, it is always worth the cost. Will you make a commitment to grow in your love for one another today?
Tony French
mrtonyfrench 