34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

John 13:34-35

Love is God’s Will (pt. 5)

BioShock Infinite has you control Booker, a private eye in charge of rescuing Elizabeth in an alternate history where extreme religious nationalism lives on a giant airship city. When you rescue her from her prison, she tags along with you for the remainder of the game. Historically, having to play escort missions in a video game are horrible. The person you are saving does dumb things and gets in the way. But not Elizabeth. She helps you find health items, money, and weapons. She takes care of all your needs.

When we contribute to the needs of the saints and practice hospitality, we are at the very heart of God’s will. Jesus even says that people will know you are a Christian by your love for one another.

Being a loving presence in your community is essential. Outsiders need to know that Jesus’ love is alive and active, but there are special promises when we love those inside our own church. We create unity within the Christian community. And when the body of Christ loves itself, there is less of a need for a lone ranger missionary to prove that God is loving and kind. If the church is encouraging, empowering, and serving its own members, surely newcomers will see that and want some of it.

Imagine the unity and presence of God we could display if Christians wanted to help people in their church. If churches wanted to help other churches. If the national church is connected with the global church. Jesus prayed for that unity. Being united by love is more important for sharing the Gospel than having the right soup kitchen or ministry outreach.

Figure it Out:

34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

  1. Circle any words or phrases that are significant to you. What makes them meaningful to you?
  2. Why does Jesus call this a new command?
  3. How do you think this method will help demonstrate to outsiders that we follow Jesus?