Topical Encyclopedia The term "New Commandment" refers to the instruction given by Jesus Christ to His disciples during the Last Supper, as recorded in the Gospel of John. This commandment is a central tenet of Christian ethics and emphasizes the importance of love among believers.Biblical Context The New Commandment is found in John 13:34-35 , where Jesus says, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." This directive was given in the context of Jesus' final teachings to His disciples before His crucifixion, highlighting its significance as a foundational principle for the Christian community. The Nature of the Commandment The commandment is described as "new" not because the concept of love was previously unknown, but because it introduced a new standard and depth of love. Jesus' love for His disciples, characterized by selflessness, sacrifice, and service, set a new benchmark for how believers are to love one another. This love is to be reflective of the love that Jesus Himself demonstrated, particularly through His sacrificial death on the cross. Theological Significance The New Commandment underscores the transformative power of love in the life of a believer. It is not merely an emotional or superficial affection but a deliberate and active choice to seek the well-being of others. This love serves as a distinguishing mark of true discipleship, as Jesus indicated that the world would recognize His followers by their love for one another. Relation to the Old Testament While the New Commandment is distinct in its Christ-centered focus, it is rooted in the Old Testament teachings. Leviticus 19:18 instructs, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." Jesus' commandment builds upon this foundation, elevating the standard of love to mirror His own example. Practical Implications The New Commandment calls Christians to a life of love that transcends cultural, social, and personal barriers. It challenges believers to embody the love of Christ in their interactions with others, fostering unity and community within the body of Christ. This love is to be evident in acts of kindness, forgiveness, and service, reflecting the heart of the Gospel. Conclusion The New Commandment remains a vital and enduring aspect of Christian doctrine, calling believers to a higher standard of love that mirrors the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Through this commandment, Christians are invited to participate in the divine nature, manifesting the love of God in a broken and divided world. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia New CommandmentNEW COMMANDMENT See BROTHERLY LOVE. Library The New Commandment the New Commandment CM * the New Commandment. The New Commandment. (John, xiii. , 33-35. ) Love in the Old Covenant. "This is his Commandment, That," &C. John Chapter xiii. 34, 35 The Commandment, Old yet New 1 John ii. 7 The Beauty and Excellency of this World Consists, not Only in the ... Resources What is the New Age movement? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the New Apostolic Church, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org Old Testament vs. New Testament - What are the differences? | GotQuestions.org New: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Neophytes: General Scriptures Concerning New Moon: Traffic at Time of, Suspended Select Readings: The New Heaven and the New Earth The New Birth is for the Glory of God The New Birth is of the Mercy of God The New Birth is of the Will of God The New Birth: A Spiritual Resurrection The New Birth: All Saints Partake of The New Birth: Circumcision of the Heart The New Birth: Connected With Adoption The New Birth: Effected by Christ The New Birth: Effected by God The New Birth: Effected by The Holy Spirit The New Birth: Evidenced by Brotherly Love The New Birth: Evidenced by Faith in Christ The New Birth: Evidenced by Righteousness The New Birth: Manner of Effecting--Illustrated The New Birth: Newness of Life The New Birth: None Can Enter Heaven Without The New Birth: Partaking of the Divine Nature The New Birth: Preserves from Satan's Devices The New Birth: Produces Delight in God's Law The New Birth: Produces Hatred of Sin The New Birth: Produces Knowledge of God The New Birth: Produces Likeness to Christ The New Birth: Produces Likeness to God The New Birth: Produces Victory Over the World The New Birth: Putting on the New Man The New Birth: The Corruption of Human Nature Requires The New Birth: The Ignorant Cavil At The New Birth: The Washing of Regeneration The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Ministry of the Gospel The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Resurrection of Christ The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Word of God Related Terms |
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