There are so many statements in the Bible that state what we are to do with or to “one another”. The first and foremost of these commands is to “Love one another.” John 13:34 states:
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another."
Jesus said this at the end of the Lord’s Supper. At the beginning of this chapter, He had washed the disciples’ feet. Then they all partook in the eating of bread and drinking of wine in remembrance of Jesus. After that, He became troubled in His spirit and stated that someone would betray Him. I can only imagine that the hurt of knowing one would give Him up for the purpose of people who would turn against Him came to the surface. The disciples upon seeing His countenance change asked what was bothering Him. And He shared with them that someone would violate His trust to which they inquired who it was that would do this. Once the betrayer left, He gave them this new commandment. He let them know that a really big change was going to happen very soon and to remember this because they are going to need each other to keep on target with their purpose and work. They are going to need the encouragement and support of others as well as encouraging and supporting the others in order to continue with the spread of the gospel.
So Jesus says to Love One Another. This is a commandment that is still in effect for us today. This isn’t just for the original disciples. It’s for us! We too must love one another, and not just in word, but in deed as well. We must show each other that we are important to each other and worthy of each others’ support. You are worthy of love and support. Jesus, Who is above all, He loves us and sent the Comforter to us to guide and help us. When we receive the Holy Spirit, we are sealed and marked for Him until the day of redemption. If Almighty God helps us, then surely, we can and should help each other.
Jesus gave us an example to live by. He said “just as I have loved you, you are to love one another.” Just like He poured out Himself and walked with them should we do that with each other. He answered questions and taught in a way that the disciples would understand and retain it. He held the disciples accountable. And He called them out on things that they should and should not be doing. All of this He did with a heart of love and trust.
Also, in addition to pouring into a disciple, He had twelve disciples. And they were so very different. They had different personalities and ways of understanding the teachings that He presented. If He can juggle these men of various backgrounds and needs, living with and leading them, surely we can love one another in the way we do even the little things like listening to each other.
In this “One Another” series, it’s of paramount importance that we understand and apply this commandment to all of the “one another” statements that are found littered throughout the Word of God. “Love one another.” Not as others have loved you, but as Jesus – Who is perfect – loves you with patience, support, reverence, and kindness. Jesus makes you truly worthy as a son of God, heir with Him to the Kingdom. Until next time.
Gotta go fill up my cup…..
Coffee with Candee 