Brotherly Love
When John wrote this book, what main ideas do you think he wanted to communicate? As you read today’s passage, did you conclude that one of the points he was making was that we all need to love our brothers? That is one of the primary themes mentioned over and over throughout this book. Why was it so important to John? He wanted to ensure that we know what our love for each other communicates to the world. Jesus told the disciples that the world would be able to tell they were disciples by their love for each other (John 13:35). In fact, in that passage, He told them they were to love each other as He loves them. The same level of compassion that Christ has shown to us is what we are to show our brothers. With the same selflessness Christ demonstrated, we are to seek to meet the needs of our brothers. The one thing that ought to show the world that we are disciples of Christ is the love we express to others. When people spend time with us, they should notice our love for each other. Using that measuring stick, how are you doing? Can people tell you are a disciple based on your love for the people in your world?
