After Judas left the upper room, Jesus turned to the remaining eleven disciples and instructed them about moving forward. First, He spoke of His glorification (which they were yet to understand), then He said:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you…” (13:34 NKJV)
Jesus had modeled a different kind of love. His words, actions, choices, reactions, and commitments illustrated a picture of God’s love that we as followers are to demonstrate to one another. It was purposeful and cultivated over time with key markings of being:
- Selfless
- Patient
- Sacrificial
- Humble
- Forgiving
- Kind
- Truthful
- Encouraging
And then He declared :
“By this, all will know that you are My disciples...” (13:35 NKJV)
Will they know us that way?