We see Jesus give us a new command today. That we love one another. They will know that we are His disciples by our love. Now, question. Is that our love for all the world? Or our love for fellow Christians? I think the answer is yes. Both. There is Biblical evidence and commands to love all the world and to love our fellow Christians. But imagine the witness it would be the world if we Christians were to truly and totally love one another. If the world is full of fussing, why should the church also be? They will know we are Christian not by our perfect doctrine or worship but by our love for one another.

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Good morning! Great to be with you this Tuesday. I’m recording this on Monday night, just finishing a meeting, and still in the midst of Zoom classes for my doctoral program. It’s good to share some time with you as we finish John 13 today, reading verses 31-38.

This command, “Love one another,” holds a powerful and profound truth. It’s remarkable that Jesus chose this as the defining characteristic of his followers. The commandment comes at a crucial moment, just before his betrayal, highlighting its importance. In loving one another, we show that we are followers of Christ.

A question that often arises is whether this love applies primarily to fellow believers or extends universally. The answer is likely both. Scripture frequently emphasizes love for the world and all people—our “neighbors.” Yet, Jesus specifically calls us to love one another within the faith as a witness to the world.

Today’s world is often divided, polarized, and full of conflict. When churches or Christians argue and engage in public conflicts, we fail to embody this call to love. If we, as Christians, struggle to show love for each other, how can we witness effectively to those outside our faith? People are drawn not by our doctrines or arguments but by our genuine love and unity.

The early church was known for its love, as early Christian writer Tertullian noted, “See how they love one another.” Imagine if our communities and churches embodied that same spirit, if people could look at us and say, “Look at how they love each other!”

Let’s aspire to make love the hallmark of our lives and interactions. As an old Christian song reminds us, “They’ll know we are Christians by our love.” So today, let’s focus on love in all things. Let’s make it our mission that if we’re known for anything, it’s our love.

Thanks for being here today. Tomorrow, we’ll continue with Peter’s journey. Have a blessed day, and let’s keep love at the center of everything we do!