John 13

“Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (34). The Old Testament law had commanded Israelites to love their neighbors (Lev 19:9). Jesus, as Teacher and Messiah, set the example for how to love: the one with the most authority, the most right to be served, should humble himself for the sake of others. This, rather than circumcision, would mark Jesus’ followers: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (35).

“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (15). Jesus calls us to reject the self-seeking competition of the world. As his disciples, we love as he loves us.