Weekly Devotions:
 

The “One Another” Passages of the New Testament 
March 12, 2006
(click here to download as a Microsoft Word document)
 

Nearly forty times in the New Testament the phrase “one another” is linked with a command that is to be carried out within the context of our relationships with others in the church. We are commanded in Scripture to do such things as love one another, encourage one another, bear one another’s burdens, instruct one another, serve one another, and to be kind to one another. For the next several weeks there will be a brief study of some of the “one another” passages contained on the back of the bulletin. While this study is not meant to be exhaustive or comprehensive, it is meant to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24) as we seek to obey these passages within our church. These passages serve as key building blocks with which healthy relationships can be built within the church body. Please take time not only to do this brief study, but to actively seek ways to live out the commands contained in these passages. As you do you will be blessed, you will be a blessing to others, and above all else, God will be glorified! 

Love One Another 

·        Read the words of Jesus in John 13:34-35. Jesus calls the commandment to love one another a “new” commandment. Since the Old Testament Law could be summarized by the two commandments “love God” and “love your neighbor” (Matthew 22:34-40) how is this commandment to love one another “new”? It was new in that Jesus was calling His disciples to love others as He had loved them. Reflect for a moment upon Jesus’ love for you and what it would mean to love others in that way. 

·        Read John 13:35 again.  How will the world know that we are Jesus’ disciples?  Do you love others in tangible ways that the world can see? 

·        Read John 15:9-17.  Focus on verses 12 and 13.  After Jesus commands the disciples to love others as He has loved them, He explains how He will express His love through the giving of His life for others.  That is the model for the love we are to give to one another.  It is to be sacrificial, unconditional, and abundant.  It is not to be merely a passive love, but an active love that seeks the good of the other even above oneself.  Is your life characterized by sacrificial love for others? 

·        Read Romans 5:6-8 and 1 John 4:7-11.  Reflect upon the love that God has shown you through Jesus’ death on the cross.  How should God’s love toward you as seen in the cross affect the way that you love others?

This week look for opportunities to demonstrate love toward someone.  Pray and ask God to burden your heart for someone in the congregation that needs love shown to them.  Write a quick note, make a phone call, lovingly help someone in need, and actively demonstrate love for “one another.”

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