You possibly have heard this statement before: “They know you are a Christian by your…”
By your what? Your…
- Self-righteousness
- Virtue signaling
- Rules
- Politics
- Theological camp
- Church network
- Seminary degree
- Perfection
- Disgust
- Cultural critique
Or, is the possible answer, love?
Jesus Clarifies This Issue
How will they know you are a Christian? Jesus makes this clear as He talks with His disciples just hours before going to the cross.
33 Little children, I shall be with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come,’ so now I say to you. 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:33-35)
By this all will know that you are My disciples – if you have love for one another.
Don’t Miss This
Friend, I would hate for you to miss this. One of the last few clear and concise biblical principles Jesus teaches His disciples before His death on the cross is this: they will know you by your love for one another.
Were your parents like mine? (And now as a parent like me?)
Did your parents ever say one important thing for you to remember as you left the house, as they dropped you off somewhere, or as they left you home with a babysitter? “Do not forget…” Mine did. In one way or another it usually related to the fact that we represent Christ and our family. I’m so grateful they did. I needed those reminders as the last thing in my mind to help me remember and grasp the concept.
Jesus does the same here. One of the last things that He reminded the disciples of as He was preparing to go to the cross is that people will know they are followers of Jesus Christ by their love.
Emphasize What Is Important
As you go about living this week, underscore in your mind what is most important. Many things are important, but what is the most important? As you live and engage those around you, make sure your love for God and people are abundantly clear through your attitude, words, and demeanor.
Image CreditOleg Magni
KevinCarson.com | Wisdom for Life in Christ Together
