The Distinctions of Discipleship (Sermon 1)

The Distinction of Love

John 13:34–35 ESV

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Introduction:

As we consider our lives as disciples, I wish to point out some things that should be evident. Distinctions are those things which separate and make the disciple different from the world. As a disciple, we are called to live with measurable and observable actions that corroborate a walk with God.

So today let’s begin with the distinction of love.

We are Commanded to Love (John 13:34)

John 13:34 ESV

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

This is to be obeyed. It is not an option. This is a command. We are directed to love.

Love others

1 John 4:20 ESV

20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.

Love enemies

Matthew 5:43–46 ESV

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

Christ Is Our Example

John 13:34 ESV

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

- He loved selflessly

Jesus demonstrated a selfless love.

- He loved limitlessly

In the beginning of this chapter Jesus washes the feet of His disciples and directs them to have the heart mind and will to do likewise for each other.

John 13:14–15 ESV

14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.

Our Love is Evident

John 13:35 ESV

35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

People will see our love because it is evident. We act like Christ toward everyone.

ILLUS: WWJD