What does it mean to "love one another" as commanded in 1 John 3:23? Setting the Scene 1 John 3:23 says, “And this is His commandment: that we believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another, as He has commanded us.” Both halves—faith in Jesus and love for one another—stand together. The second flows out of the first. What “Love One Another” Means • Not an optional suggestion but a direct command. • Rooted in God’s own nature (1 John 4:8). • Modeled by Jesus: “A new commandment I give you, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (John 13:34). • Expressed in concrete actions, not mere words (1 John 3:18). Biblical Portrait of This Love • Self-sacrificing: “By this we know love: Jesus laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers” (1 John 3:16). • Active generosity: meeting practical needs (1 John 3:17). • Patient, kind, humble, forgiving (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). • Bearing burdens (Galatians 6:2). • Preferring others above self (Philippians 2:3-4). Daily Life Applications Checkpoints for genuine love: – Words that build up rather than tear down. – Quiet acts of service no one else sees. – Quick response to brothers and sisters in financial or emotional need. – Intentional hospitality—inviting, listening, sharing. – Refusing to hold grudges; pursuing reconciliation first. – Praying faithfully for fellow believers and even for enemies (Matthew 5:44). The Power Behind the Command • The new birth: “Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:7). • The Holy Spirit pours God’s love into our hearts (Romans 5:5). • Abiding in Christ supplies the strength to love (John 15:4-12). Why It Matters • Assurance: “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers” (1 John 3:14). • Witness: “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). • Joy: obedience brings fullness of joy (John 15:11). • Unity: love knits believers together, displaying Christ’s body functioning as one (Colossians 3:14-15). Practical Takeaways • Ask: “How can I tangibly bless another believer today?” Then do it. • Schedule margin to serve; love takes time. • Guard hearts from bitterness—confess grudges quickly. • Remember: every act of love, however small, echoes Christ’s own love and fulfills His clear command in 1 John 3:23. |
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