John 13:31-38

Today's Passage: John 13:31-38

Love is a distinguishing mark for a disciple of Jesus. As followers of Jesus, there should be an abundance of love in our soul that flows over towards God and others.

Let me ask you two questions:

• If you could love someone into a relationship with Jesus, would you do it?
• If you could love someone into a relationship with Jesus, but it cost you your life, would you do it?

The second question is really hard to answer. We think about how much we might have to give up, but what is the ROI (return on investment)? It means one more person will spend eternity with Jesus – that’s more valuable than anything on earth. Jesus modeled it for us. In verse 34, the ESV reads, “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.” The “just as” in this verse implies a love that extends to laying down your life for another. The love of Christ is unnatural or what we see from culture. Jesus’ love extends to enemies, it breaks down barriers, and is willing to sacrifice for others. Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” And as followers of Jesus, we don’t get to pick and choose what we want to do for Jesus. When He calls/commands us to do something we do it: the call here is to love sacrificially.

Is your life marked by love for others? Do you love in a sacrificial way?

Written By: Brice Stockton