John 15:12
This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
This repeats the new commandment from 13:34 but within the vine metaphor's context - branches loving one another as they abide in the vine. Early church's mutual care astounded pagans. Christian charity toward poor, sick, imprisoned, and even enemies marked the church. Tertullian reported pagans saying, 'See how these Christians love one another.' House churches practiced economic sharing (Acts 2:44-45, 4:32). Persecution intensified community bonds - martyrs' courage strengthened others. Medieval monasticism attempted communal love through vows and shared life. Reformation emphasized Christ's love as both example and empowerment - we love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). Modern individualistic culture struggles with this commandment. Yet wherever authentic Christian community exists, this love remains compelling apologetic.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's love as the standard transform commandment to love from legalistic burden to gospel privilege?
- Why is mutual love among believers (rather than love for all humanity) specifically commanded here?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus gives His commandment: 'This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you' (haute estin he entole he eme, hina agapate allelous kathos egapesa hymas). While the Torah commanded neighbor-love (Leviticus 19:18), Jesus' command is new in its standard: 'as I have loved you.' The aorist egapesa points to specific demonstration - supremely the Cross. The command is singular entole (commandment) though it encompasses everything - love fulfills all law (Romans 13:10). The quality of love is defined by Christ's example: self-sacrificial, humble, forgiving, persevering. This mutual love within Christian community is to reflect Christ's love for the church. It's not sentimental affection but committed action for others' good, patterned after Christ's self-giving.