a new command

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.
John 13:34 NLT

Prior to Jesus the people of Israel were loaded down with commands. I wonder how they felt hearing Jesus give a new one? How do we?

If we have grown up in a religious environment we would reject it without hearing the spirit of it. However, if we can listen without reaction we can discern the spirit of the command.

Jesus had walked with His disciples for three years. They saw Him behave in a way that their religious leaders didn't. He had authority, they didn't. So their ears were being opened to hear what He was saying. He had demonstrated love to them, it was not foreign. Yes it was very different, but not foreign.

Loving others as we have been loved is the key. If our God does not judge and condemn us, neither should we. If our God gives us grace, then so should we. Amen!


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