Loving disciples…
For the last few months, I have been encouraged that many people have been pointed to my blog by searching for something related to this verse of Scripture:
By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:35 ESV)
I am encouraged by this because this means – I hope – that more believers are understanding that love is paramount for a follower of Jesus Christ. Not the kind of love that we can drum up for those who are like us, but the kind of love that only God can create within us through his Spirit. We are love those who are like us, other believers who are not like us, and even unbelievers.
So, if you are interested in reading more about my understanding of “loving disciples”, here are a few posts:
1. Jesus cares more about people than rituals
2. Jesus demonstrates God’s love even towards those who reject him
3. Listening, Learning, Serving…
5. Which did the will of his father?
7. Do we want to be associated with a Samaritan?
8. All people will know that you are my disciples…
10. Owe no one anything except to love one another…
As Jesus said, all of the Torah and the Prophets can be summarized in this two-fold command: Love God and love your neighbor as yourself. John called this the new command that is not really new at all.
You can’t manufacture this kind of love yourself. So what do we do when God’s love is not flowing through us? Repent and submit to the Spirit’s work in our lives. He always creates love.