John 13:31-35 - Biblical Discipleship

John 13:31-35 - Biblical DiscipleshipSeries: Disciple Makers Preacher: Simon LawrensonSunday MorningDate: 13th January 2025Passage: John 13:31-35-------------------Simon’s sermon focuses on the nature of true discipleship, centering on Jesus’ new commandment to love one another as He loved us. He begins by sharing an anecdote about chocolate-covered peanuts, illustrating that not everything is as it appears – including those who claim to be disciples of Jesus.The pastor then draws attention to the contrast between self-love and Christ-like love, using the examples of Judas and Peter from John 13. He explains that self-love is governed by the flesh, while Christ-like love is powered by the Holy Spirit. Simon provides several examples of self-love, including pride, self-indulgence, envy, and perfectionism, cautioning listeners to be aware of these tendencies in their own lives.Moving to the heart of his message, Simon unpacks Jesus’ new commandment in John 13:34-35. He emphasises that this love is new in nature and substance, not merely chronologically. The standard for this love is not loving others as we love ourselves, but loving as Christ loved us. Simon describes Christ’s love as forgiving, active, sacrificial, and committed.The pastor highlights several key characteristics of this Christ-like love:It’s forgiving, as exemplified in Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”It’s compassionate and understanding, recognising that everyone experiences both strength and struggle.It’s sacrificial and servant-hearted, not based on the worthiness of the recipient.It’s committed, not swayed by changing emotions.Simon stresses that this love is the singular identifier of true disciples, quoting Jesus’ words in John 13:35: “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” He warns that in the last days, as prophesied in Matthew 24:12, “because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.” The pastor urges his congregation not to let this happen in their community.In conclusion, Simon reminds his listeners of the profound nature of Christ’s love for them – a love that died sacrificially, continues to intercede, and will return for them. He challenges the congregation to reflect on what their own love looks like in light of this example. The sermon ends with a call to embody this Christ-like love as a testimony to the world and a fulfilment of their calling as disciples.