What does John 13:35 mean?

Explanation

John 13:35 is a direct quote from Jesus Christ speaking to His disciples.

He is explaining to them one of the principal hallmarks of being His follower: mutual love.

The love that Jesus refers to is much deeper than friendly affection or familial bonds; it embodies a sacrificial, selfless love that goes beyond conventional expectations.

This love is agape love, a divine, unconditional love that seeks the best for others, irrespective of their actions or status.

Jesus tells His disciples that love for one another is not just a recommendation but is the defining characteristic by which all people will recognize His followers.

The implication is that this level of love is so distinct and counter-cultural that it serves as evidence of a disciple's connection with Jesus and is a testimony to the truth of His teachings.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the discourse that Jesus had with His disciples at the Last Supper, which is recorded in the Gospel of John chapters 13 to 17.

It was during this intimate gathering, just before His betrayal and crucifixion.

The new commandment to love one another (John 13:34) was given in the context of Jesus's farewell to His disciples and set the standard for how they were to live after His departure.

Love would not just hold them together as a community but also would mark them distinctively in a society where such selfless behavior was not the norm.

Theological Insights

Several theological insights can be gained from John 13:35:

1. It underscores the concept of agape love, which is at the heart of Christian ethics.

This verse supports the idea that the Christian community should be characterized by a distinct quality of love, indicative of Christ's transformative power in their lives. 3.

It challenges the notion that orthodoxy (correct belief) alone defines Christian discipleship, by stressing orthopraxy (correct practice), particularly in the form of love. 4.

This love serves as a witness to the world of Jesus’s mission and the reality of the Kingdom of God.

Different denominations might emphasize different aspects of this love in action, but the central tenet of a visibly lived-out love remains a common theme.

Practical Applications

This teaching can be applied in numerous ways:

It calls for Christians to evaluate their relationships and to prioritize love in their interactions with others. 2.

It challenges believers to seek reconciliation and unity within the church and serves as a reminder that Christian witness to the outside world is tied to how Christians treat one another. 3.

It encourages community support and charity, indicating that the well-being of others, particularly fellow believers, is a direct concern and responsibility. 4.

It serves as a constant encouragement for individuals to act selflessly, echoing the example Jesus set throughout His ministry.

Cross-References

• "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." (John 13:34)
• "By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments." (1 John 5:2)
• "Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law." (Romans 13:8)
• "And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:8)

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word used for 'love' is "ἀγαπᾶτε" (agapate), which is the present active subjunctive of "ἀγαπάω" (agapaō). This form of love is not based on emotion or conditions, but on choice and will, denoting a selfless, sacrificial love that is an act of the will.

The phrase "one to another" translates to "ἀλλήλων" (allēlōn), indicating reciprocity and mutual caring within the community of disciples.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Agape love, as taught by Jesus, stood in contrast to many ancient philosophies and religions that promoted virtue ethics or reciprocal relationships. For example, Roman society valued honor and social status, so the idea of loving someone without regard to their status was counter-cultural.

In comparison, some contemporary religious interpretations, such as those from the Buddhist tradition, promote a universal compassion that also transcends personal benefit or relationships.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific study of altruism and selfless behavior offers an intriguing intersection with the principle of love outlined in John 13:35. Researches in fields such as evolutionary biology, psychology, and neuroscience have examined why humans might act in selfless ways that benefit others.

Some theories suggest that such behavior can be explained by kin selection, reciprocal altruism, or group selection.

However, the kind of love Jesus speaks of goes beyond these evolutionary explanations, calling for a love that is not necessarily beneficial to the individual from a naturalistic standpoint.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse often focus on the radical nature of Jesus’s command to love.

For instance, biblical scholars such as William Barclay note the disruptive nature of this love in the societal norms of the time.

Others like Matthew Henry emphasize the communal aspect of this love, highlighting how it demonstrates the reality of the transformation that occurs through faith in Jesus.

Contemporary scholars continue to explore the social and moral implications of this commandment, with many pointing out its relevance in issues of social justice, community building, and interpersonal relationships.