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. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:34-35
I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 13:31-35, where Jesus shares with the disciples (except Judas who has left them) a new commandment to love one another as He has love them. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: In v31, Jesus shares that He is glorified and the Father is glorified in Him...echoing earlier text that Jesus and the Father are One - part of the Triune God. In v32, Jesus further clarifies v31 by sharing that if the Father is glorified in Jesus (as Jesus reflects the Father and bears His image), then the Father will also glorify Jesus in himself and him at once - seemingly implying that the Father and Jesus are one and glorify each other as different but equal parts of the Triune God. In v33, Jesus shows His love for the disciples (and all who follow Him) by referring to them as little children - implying that there is maturity that is lacking but to follow later as they grow in walk with Him. He tells the disciples He is leaving them (to die on the cross) and that they cannot go to where He is going...at least not now. In vv34-35, Jesus gives the disciples a new commandment to love one another as He has loved them - and this love will be a light for others to see and be used to draw others to Him.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: Judas has "gone out" both physically and spiritually - apostasy - vv30-31.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): New or less mature believers with weak faith should avoid sinful influences that allow Satan to enter them, lest they will fall away as Judas did. Claim the promise that Jesus lays down His life for us (and resurrection) and this gives us certainty of victory over sin and death. Follow the example of the disciples to seek, understand, and follow the voice of the Good Shepherd. Love God, and love others as Jesus loved us.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You bless. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, apply, and be obedient to Your Word today and every day.
