“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” —John 13:35
God’s love is a gift to be
“Before the Passover Festival, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” —John 13:1
“Lord, are you going to wash my feet…you will never wash my feet?” —John 13:6, 8
“If I don’t wash your feet, you have no part with me.” —John 13:8
God’s love is a
“God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” —Romans 5:5
“I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” —John 13:34-35
Jesus calls his church give his love
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as any had need. Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with joyful and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. Every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.” —Acts 2:42-47
The world will take
“Love moves from the household of faith outward, from the community to the world.” —Marianne Thompson
We have an
The Gospel leads us to life of
For further study:
Scripture: Ephesians 5:2; Matthew 22:34-40; John 15:12-14, 17:21-24
Resources: “A Testament of Devotion” by Thomas R. Kelly
Community Group Guide:
Imagine Jesus washing the disciples feet; can you tell us the scene?
Thinking about Jesus’ love, how does it inform how we love others?
What are ways you have experienced Jesus’ love in the church?
How does the love of the church impact the world?
Is it more difficult to extend love or receive love?
In what ways does the Gospel lead you to deeper love of Jesus?
To prepare for next week: Gentleness in Life; Philippians 4:5