John 13:34

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

A new {G2537} commandment {G1785} I give {G1325} unto you {G5213}, That {G2443} ye love {G25} one another {G240}; as {G2531} I have loved {G25} you {G5209}, that {G2443} ye {G5210} also {G2532} love {G25} one another {G240}.

“I am giving you a new command: that you keep on loving each other. In the same way that I have loved you, you are also to keep on loving each other.

A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another.

A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; even as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

Commentary

Context

Spoken during the solemn atmosphere of the Last Supper, just after Jesus had washed His disciples' feet and foretold His imminent departure, John 13:34 marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' final instructions. He was preparing His followers for life without His physical presence, establishing the defining characteristic of their new community. This commandment follows His demonstration of humble service, providing the practical example for the love He now enjoins.

Key Themes

  • The "Newness" of the Commandment: While the Old Testament commanded love for one's neighbor (Leviticus 19:18), Jesus' command is "new" in its standard and source. The standard is His own sacrificial, self-giving love (agape). It's a love that goes beyond mere reciprocity or obligation, requiring a willingness to serve and even suffer for others, just as He did.
  • The Benchmark of Jesus' Love: The phrase "as I have loved you" is central. Jesus' love was demonstrated through His life of service, His willingness to lay down His life (John 15:13), and His unwavering compassion even towards His betrayer. This love is the model for Christian relationships.
  • Defining Christian Identity: This commandment is not merely a suggestion but a foundational principle. It is the identifying mark of Jesus' disciples, serving as a powerful witness to the world (John 13:35). The way believers love one another should be distinct and evident.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "love" used here is agape (ἀγάπη). This term signifies a divine, unconditional, and self-sacrificial love, distinct from other forms of love like phileo (brotherly affection) or eros (romantic love). Jesus commands a love that is volitional and active, a commitment to the well-being of others regardless of their merit or response, mirroring God's own love for humanity.

Practical Application

John 13:34 calls believers to actively demonstrate Christ-like love in their daily lives. This means:

  • Serving Others: Following Jesus' example of humility and service, as seen in the foot-washing.
  • Forgiveness and Grace: Extending mercy and understanding, even when it's difficult.
  • Unity and Community: Fostering a genuine sense of belonging and mutual care within the church, which then becomes a compelling testimony to those outside the faith. This love is the ultimate fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8).

This "new commandment" remains as vital today as it was when first uttered, challenging believers to reflect the very heart of God in their interactions with one another.

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Cross-References

  • Ephesians 5:2 (70 votes)

    And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

  • Leviticus 19:18 (57 votes)

    Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.

  • John 15:17 (53 votes)

    These things I command you, that ye love one another.

  • 1 Peter 1:22 (50 votes)

    Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, [see that ye] love one another with a pure heart fervently:

  • Galatians 6:2 (41 votes)

    Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:26 (38 votes)

    And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:27 (38 votes)

    ¶ Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.