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John 15:12
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That ye love one another - See on Joh 13:34 (note). So deeply was thus commandment engraved on the heart of this evangelist that St. Jerome says, lib. iii. c. 6, Com. ad Galat., that in his extreme old age, when he used to be carried to the public assemblies of the believers, his constant saying was, Little children, love one another. His disciples, wearied at last with the constant repetition of the same words, asked him, Why he constantly said the same thing? "Because (said he) it is the commandment of the Lord, and the observation of it alone is sufficient." Quia praeceptum Domini est, et, si solum fiat, sufficit.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
That ye love one another, &c.--(See on Joh 13:34-35).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Greater love hath no man than this,.... By these words our Lord shows, how far love to another should extend, even to the laying down of our lives for the brethren; which is the highest instance of love among men; that a man lay down his life for his friends; and in which believers, should not come short of them; and also his great love to his people, and explains what he had just said, "as I have loved you", Joh 13:34; which in a little time would be seen, by his laying down his life for them: for he not only came down from heaven, and laid aside his glory and royal majesty, but he laid down his life; not his gold and silver, and the riches of this world, which were all his, but his life; than which, nothing is dearer to a man, is himself, his all: and besides, Christ's life was not a common one, it was not the life of an innocent person only, or the life of a mere man, but of a man in union with the Son of God; it was the Lord of glory and Prince of life, who was crucified, and slain; a life that was entirely at his own dispose; it had never been forfeited by sin, nor could it have been forced away from him by men or devils; it was laid down of and by himself, freely and voluntarily; and that "for", in the room, and instead of his people, as a ransom for them; he being their surety and substitute, and standing in their legal place and stead, he took their sins upon him, bore the curse of the law, sustained his Father's wrath, and all the punishment due to sin; and so suffered death, the death of the cross; the just, in the room and stead of the unjust; the persons for whom be laid down his life, are described as "his friends"; not that they were originally so; being enemies and enmity itself to God, when he laid down his life for them, and reconciled them; they were not such as had carried themselves friendly, or had shown any love and affection to him, but all the reverse: but they are so called, because he had chosen them for his friends; he had pitched upon them, and resolved to make them so; and by dying for them, reconciled them who were enemies; and in consequence of this, by his Spirit and grace, of enemies makes them friends; so that his love in dying for his people, is greater than any instance of love among men: he laid down his life for his enemies, without any sinister selfish views, and that freely and voluntarily; whereas among men, when one man has laid down his life for others, either they have been very deserving, or he has been forced to it, or it has been done with the view of popular applause and vain glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:12-13 This is my commandment: Love each other: See 13:34. • Jesus demonstrated his love by sacrificing his life at the cross.
John 15:12
No Greater Love
11I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.12This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
I Am a Branch
By Jim Cymbala2.1K36:14AbidingJHN 15:1JHN 15:4JHN 15:9JHN 15:12JHN 15:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ and staying connected to Him. He explains that simply trying to change our behavior without truly abiding in Christ is ineffective. The speaker encourages listeners to listen to and meditate on God's word daily in order to stay connected to Him. He uses the analogy of a vine and branches to illustrate the relationship between Christ and believers, highlighting the need for dependence on Him for life and fruitfulness. The speaker also challenges the legalistic mindset that focuses on our own efforts, reminding listeners that Christianity is about receiving and sharing in the life of Christ.
(What Is True Salvation) True Salvation
By Milton Green97412:33JHN 15:12GAL 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a fear of God and a pure heart. He explains that loving one's neighbor as oneself is the fulfillment of the law. The preacher warns against accumulating worldly treasures and teaches that laying down one's life and overcoming the fleshly nature is necessary to truly love the Lord. He also highlights the significance of possessing the land, both in the physical and spiritual sense, and encourages believers to stand firm in their faith and count it all joy in trials.
Church - Part 2
By Milton Green96403:00MAT 6:33JHN 15:121CO 12:7EPH 4:11COL 1:131PE 2:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a mature and complete man in the eyes of God. He explains that as believers, we start out as children and are called to possess the land, which symbolizes spiritual growth and maturity. The preacher emphasizes the commandment given by Jesus to love one another as He loved us, and highlights the role of true apostles, pastors, and teachers in leading by example and encouraging the flock. He also emphasizes the importance of being in covenant with God for protection and warns against being deceived by false teachings and manifestations of power. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the need for holiness and righteousness in our lives and the importance of following after Jesus.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Studies in 1 John 07 Evidences Brotherly Love
By John W. Bramhall79752:26MAT 22:37JHN 13:34JHN 15:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of experiencing true joy in our lives as believers. He highlights the desire of God the Father for His children to be filled with joy and happiness. The sermon is based on the epistle of John, specifically chapter 4, which addresses the responsibility of believers in this world. The preacher also warns against the unreality of professing love for God while hating one's brother, emphasizing the need for genuine love and fellowship within the family of God. The sermon concludes with the assurance that when our hearts and lives are filled with the love of the Father and the Son, we can have boldness in the day of judgment.
The Complete Transformation - Part 2
By Danny Bond56041:05MAT 12:34JHN 13:34JHN 15:12ACT 4:20ACT 9:20ROM 1:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a man named Rolla who was on the verge of killing his family. As he paced around with a gun in his hand, he turned on the TV and came across a sermon by Pastor Chuck Smith. The message about God's love and the offer of a new life resonated with Rolla, and he fell to his knees, experiencing a transformation in his heart. The speaker then encourages the audience to have a fervent and fearless faith that can make a difference in the world, citing the example of missionary Jay Hudson Taylor. The sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing the message of Christ and the impact it can have on others.
I'll Be a Friend to Him
By Jack Hyles5451:00:46MAT 6:33MAT 25:35LUK 10:27JHN 15:12JHN 15:14ACT 9:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying committed to God and not giving up, using examples from the Bible. He mentions the story of David's son Absalom rebelling against him and how David remained faithful to God throughout the conflict. The preacher also references the Apostle Paul's perseverance and determination to stay on the right path. The sermon concludes with a call to the audience to abide in Jesus, follow his commandments, and be a friend of Jesus.
Pro Love
By Stewart Ruch42424:11God's LoveAbortionCompassion for the UnbornJHN 15:12Stewart Ruch emphasizes the profound love of God and the importance of recognizing ourselves as cherished by Him, particularly in the context of the abortion debate. He shares a personal experience of feeling Jesus' closeness and how it transformed his understanding of being a beloved son of God. Ruch calls for compassion towards the unborn and those affected by abortion, urging the congregation to pray and act against this social injustice while also emphasizing the power of confession and the need for love in all relationships. He highlights that the church's response should be rooted in love, prayer, and active engagement in fostering and adopting children in need.
The Friend of Disciples
By W.F. Anderson38100:00PRO 17:17MAT 16:6MAT 16:11JHN 15:12JHN 15:14ROM 12:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the second charity of a friend, which is an openness of heart and mind. He uses the analogy of a slave who only receives orders from his master without knowing the master's plans or intentions. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding someone with whom we can open up our hearts and minds, using C.S. Lewis' statement that friends have naked souls. He also mentions the psychological background of the turning community, highlighting the joy of sharing with friends and the support they provide in times of grief. The sermon concludes with a reference to the story of the man who went to his friend's house at midnight, emphasizing the cultural importance of hospitality and the need for friends in times of trouble.
Loving Others in the Love of God (Jn. 15:12)
By Mike Bickle4354:35Community in ChristAbiding LoveLoving OthersMAT 22:39LUK 6:31JHN 15:12ROM 13:10GAL 6:2EPH 4:32HEB 10:251PE 4:81JN 3:181JN 4:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the call to love others as God loves us, rooted in John 15:12. He explains that God's love is wholehearted and should inspire us to express that love to others, particularly those who feel unnoticed or unvalued. Bickle challenges the spirit of entitlement that often arises when discussing love within the church, urging believers to take the initiative to love and support one another. He highlights the importance of community and belonging in the body of Christ, encouraging a shift from seeking to be loved to actively loving others. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to embody God's love in our relationships, fostering a spiritual family that reflects the heart of the Father.
Loving Others: By Seeing God's Glory (Jn. 15:12; 17:22)
By Mike Bickle331:08:55Community in ChristAbiding LoveLoving OthersMAT 16:18JHN 15:12JHN 17:22EPH 4:16HEB 2:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of loving others as a reflection of God's glory, urging the congregation to extend their love beyond familiar circles to those who feel unnoticed or unloved. He highlights that true love mirrors the relationship within the Trinity and is essential for the church's mission, as it demonstrates God's character to the world. Bickle encourages believers to actively seek out and include those who may feel isolated within the church community, reinforcing that every member has a pastoral calling to love and support one another.
Loving Others: God's Primary Plan Is the Local Church
By Mike Bickle3144:38Love in the ChurchAbiding LovePastoral ResponsibilityMAT 5:46JHN 13:35JHN 15:9JHN 15:12EPH 3:18EPH 4:16HEB 10:25Mike Bickle emphasizes that loving others is central to God's plan for the local church, as illustrated in John 15. He highlights that Jesus loves us with the same intensity as the Father loves Him, and this love compels us to extend it to others, especially those who may not enhance our lives in any way. Bickle encourages believers to see their pastoral calling as a responsibility to love and include those who are often neglected within the church community. He asserts that true fellowship goes beyond comfort zones and requires intentional outreach to the weaker members of the body of Christ. Ultimately, the church is called to be a family that reflects the Father's love, demonstrating it to the world.
Accepting Our Partners as They Are in Marriage
By Zac Poonen0Acceptance in MarriageGod's Unconditional LoveGEN 2:25JHN 15:12ROM 5:82CO 5:17EPH 4:2PHP 2:3COL 3:13HEB 13:51PE 4:81JN 4:18Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of accepting our partners as they are in marriage, drawing parallels to Adam and Eve's initial openness before sin led to shame and hiding. He explains that many people wear masks to hide their true selves due to fear of rejection, which can hinder genuine relationships. Poonen highlights that true acceptance comes from understanding God's unconditional love, which frees us from the need for human validation. He encourages couples to listen to both spoken and unspoken words of their partners, fostering an environment of acceptance and growth. Ultimately, a home centered on Christ will cultivate peace and understanding between spouses.
Growing Up Into Christ Ephesians 4
By John Nelson Darby0Unity in the Body of ChristBlessings in ChristJHN 15:12ROM 5:52CO 5:17EPH 2:19EPH 4:13PHP 1:6COL 1:27HEB 10:241PE 2:91JN 4:12John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound love and interest God has in blessing His people, illustrating that His thoughts are centered on bringing us into the fullness of Christ. He explains that through Christ's descent and ascent, we find strength and comfort, as He understands our trials and sorrows. Darby highlights that our natural portion as Christians is to enjoy God, and that the love of God is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to grow up into Christ, fostering unity and love among one another, as this reflects God's nature. Ultimately, our fellowship and communion with each other are rooted in the divine love that God has for us, which transcends worldly troubles.
Love Worketh No Ill
By Charles Finney0Benevolence in ActionTrue LoveMAT 22:39LUK 6:31JHN 15:12ROM 13:101CO 13:4GAL 5:14EPH 4:32PHP 2:4COL 3:141JN 4:20Charles Finney emphasizes that true love, which is the essence of religion, is not merely emotional or based on natural affections, but is a deliberate choice of benevolence towards all beings. He explains that this love works no ill to our neighbors because it respects their rights and seeks their happiness, urging believers to extend this love universally, especially to those closest to them. Finney warns against the delusion of equating emotional experiences with true piety, asserting that genuine religion manifests in active good-willing and benevolence. He concludes that true religion is characterized by a commitment to promote the well-being of others, reflecting God's love and kindness.
Real Love Shares
By K.P. Yohannan0Love for the PoorCompassionPRO 19:17MAT 22:39MAT 25:40MRK 12:31LUK 6:38JHN 15:12GAL 6:2JAS 2:151PE 4:101JN 3:17K.P. Yohannan shares a poignant experience in the streets of Bombay, where he encounters a desperate beggar girl pleading for help. This moment forces him to confront the stark contrast between her life and that of his own daughter, Sarah, highlighting the deep need for compassion and love for the less fortunate. He reflects on God's challenge to prioritize love for all children, regardless of their circumstances, and to embody the real love that shares and cares for others. The sermon emphasizes that true love transcends societal boundaries and calls for action towards those in need.
1 John 3:12
By John Gill0Brotherly LoveHatred and EnvyGEN 4:8MAT 5:22JHN 15:12ROM 12:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:31HEB 11:4JAS 1:201JN 3:121JN 3:15John Gill emphasizes the importance of brotherly love by contrasting it with the hatred exemplified by Cain, who, influenced by evil, murdered his brother Abel out of envy. Gill explains that Cain's actions stemmed from his own wickedness and the acceptance of Abel's righteous sacrifice by God, which incited Cain's jealousy. He warns against allowing such hatred to take root in our hearts, as it leads to destructive actions and a separation from God. The sermon highlights the need for self-examination of our motives and the importance of faith in our works. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to embody love and righteousness, avoiding the path of Cain.
1 John 4:17
By John Gill0Boldness in JudgmentPerfect LoveJHN 15:12ROM 8:12CO 5:1EPH 5:1PHP 1:61PE 1:41JN 3:11JN 4:121JN 4:17John Gill emphasizes the transformative power of love in the life of a believer, explaining that perfect love casts out fear, particularly the fear of judgment. He highlights that true love for God is demonstrated through love for others, which assures believers of their standing before God on the day of judgment. Gill reassures that those who embody this love will face judgment with boldness, reflecting the character of Christ in their lives. He encourages believers to embrace their identity as children of God, which grants them confidence and hope for eternal life. Ultimately, Gill calls for a life that mirrors Christ's love and holiness in a world that often opposes such values.
Saul and Jonathan Were Lovely
By F.B. Meyer0Divine LoveForgiveness2SA 1:23MAT 5:44LUK 6:31JHN 15:12ROM 5:81CO 13:4EPH 4:32COL 3:131PE 4:81JN 4:19F.B. Meyer reflects on the deep love and admiration David had for both Saul and Jonathan, emphasizing that even in the face of Saul's failures, David chose to remember the good qualities of the first king of Israel. This act of love illustrates the divine love that God instills in His children, encouraging them to love their enemies and focus on the virtues of others rather than their faults. Meyer challenges listeners to cultivate such love in their own lives, urging them to forgive and cherish the good in others, just as God does for us. He calls for a 'baptism of love' that transforms hearts and relationships, allowing believers to embody the love of Christ.
200,000 Miles of Travel
By George Mueller0Faith in ActionThe Power of PrayerPSA 37:5PRO 3:5MAT 6:33JHN 15:12ROM 12:102CO 9:8PHP 4:191TH 5:17HEB 11:1JAS 5:16George Müller, at the age of 70, embarked on a world-wide ministry of preaching and teaching after the death of his first wife, Mary. With the support of his daughter and his second wife, Susannah, he traveled 200,000 miles over seventeen years, preaching in forty-two countries and addressing millions, all while relying solely on God for his financial needs. His commitment to prayer was exemplified during a foggy voyage when he prayed for guidance, leading to the fog lifting, which even converted the ship's captain. Müller's aim was to share biblical truths, promote unity among Christians, and encourage a love for the Scriptures. His legacy as a man of faith and influence continued to inspire many even after his passing.
Fear Not
By George Fox0Overcoming FearUnity in ChristJHN 15:122TI 1:7HEB 10:25George Fox encourages believers to not fear the powers of darkness but to maintain their gatherings in the strength of God, emphasizing the importance of unity and love among friends. He urges everyone to remain faithful in the unchanging life and power of God, ensuring that Christ reigns in their midst. Fox highlights that true unity comes from dwelling in the power of an endless life, which provides stability against external fears.
The Challenge of Love
By T. Austin-Sparks0Love in RelationshipsDivine LoveJHN 15:12ROM 5:51CO 13:1GAL 5:22EPH 2:4EPH 4:301JN 3:141JN 4:111JN 4:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound challenge of embodying Divine love as a reflection of God's love for us, as articulated in Ephesians 2:4 and Romans 5:5. He asserts that our relationship with God is fundamentally tested by our love for one another, highlighting that true love is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit within us. Sparks warns against allowing bitterness to hinder our love for fellow believers, as this can obstruct our communion with God and affect our prayer life. He concludes that genuine ministry and spiritual growth are rooted in the love of God, which must be the driving force behind our actions and relationships with others.
What About the Future of the Salvation Army?
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Future of The Salvation ArmyLove and Unity in ServiceISA 41:10JHN 15:12Samuel Logan Brengle addresses the future of The Salvation Army, emphasizing that its destiny is intertwined with the faithfulness and love of its members. He acknowledges the ongoing concerns about the Army's future, urging a commitment to humility, loyalty, and adherence to Christ's teachings. Brengle warns against complacency and the loss of love, asserting that the Army's spiritual vitality depends on its members' dedication to serving one another and glorifying the cross. He concludes that the future of The Salvation Army hinges on its ability to embody love and unity, as exemplified by Jesus and the Apostle Paul.
If the Household Be Too Little for the Lamb
By A.B. Simpson0StewardshipEvangelismMAT 22:39MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 10:27JHN 15:12ROM 10:142CO 5:20GAL 6:2JAS 2:141PE 4:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the responsibility of redeemed individuals to share the salvation offered through Christ, highlighting that it is selfish to keep this gift to ourselves. He challenges listeners to recognize their neighbors—those in close proximity, such as family, friends, and coworkers—as the ones to whom they owe a spiritual duty. Simpson urges believers to actively seek opportunities to share the message of eternal life, reflecting on the love and sacrifice of Jesus for all. The sermon calls for self-examination regarding how well we fulfill this responsibility. Ultimately, it is a call to action for Christians to be stewards of God's grace in their communities.
Thou Shalt Be to Him Instead of God
By A.B. Simpson0Selfless LoveRepresentation of GodEXO 7:1MAT 5:16JHN 15:12ROM 10:122CO 9:8GAL 5:13EPH 5:1PHP 2:3COL 3:231JN 4:19A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound responsibility and honor of representing God to others, as exemplified by Moses and Aaron. He encourages believers to embody the unchanging and dependable nature of God in their interactions, fostering trust and love in their relationships. Simpson highlights that living a life of self-forgetfulness and generosity reflects God's character, urging us to bless others as God blesses us. By doing so, we can elevate our lives and the lives of those around us, fulfilling our divine calling. Ultimately, he calls for a life that mirrors God's love and beneficence.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That ye love one another - See on Joh 13:34 (note). So deeply was thus commandment engraved on the heart of this evangelist that St. Jerome says, lib. iii. c. 6, Com. ad Galat., that in his extreme old age, when he used to be carried to the public assemblies of the believers, his constant saying was, Little children, love one another. His disciples, wearied at last with the constant repetition of the same words, asked him, Why he constantly said the same thing? "Because (said he) it is the commandment of the Lord, and the observation of it alone is sufficient." Quia praeceptum Domini est, et, si solum fiat, sufficit.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
That ye love one another, &c.--(See on Joh 13:34-35).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Greater love hath no man than this,.... By these words our Lord shows, how far love to another should extend, even to the laying down of our lives for the brethren; which is the highest instance of love among men; that a man lay down his life for his friends; and in which believers, should not come short of them; and also his great love to his people, and explains what he had just said, "as I have loved you", Joh 13:34; which in a little time would be seen, by his laying down his life for them: for he not only came down from heaven, and laid aside his glory and royal majesty, but he laid down his life; not his gold and silver, and the riches of this world, which were all his, but his life; than which, nothing is dearer to a man, is himself, his all: and besides, Christ's life was not a common one, it was not the life of an innocent person only, or the life of a mere man, but of a man in union with the Son of God; it was the Lord of glory and Prince of life, who was crucified, and slain; a life that was entirely at his own dispose; it had never been forfeited by sin, nor could it have been forced away from him by men or devils; it was laid down of and by himself, freely and voluntarily; and that "for", in the room, and instead of his people, as a ransom for them; he being their surety and substitute, and standing in their legal place and stead, he took their sins upon him, bore the curse of the law, sustained his Father's wrath, and all the punishment due to sin; and so suffered death, the death of the cross; the just, in the room and stead of the unjust; the persons for whom be laid down his life, are described as "his friends"; not that they were originally so; being enemies and enmity itself to God, when he laid down his life for them, and reconciled them; they were not such as had carried themselves friendly, or had shown any love and affection to him, but all the reverse: but they are so called, because he had chosen them for his friends; he had pitched upon them, and resolved to make them so; and by dying for them, reconciled them who were enemies; and in consequence of this, by his Spirit and grace, of enemies makes them friends; so that his love in dying for his people, is greater than any instance of love among men: he laid down his life for his enemies, without any sinister selfish views, and that freely and voluntarily; whereas among men, when one man has laid down his life for others, either they have been very deserving, or he has been forced to it, or it has been done with the view of popular applause and vain glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:12-13 This is my commandment: Love each other: See 13:34. • Jesus demonstrated his love by sacrificing his life at the cross.