7. How does Christ’s New Commandment relate to unity?

Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another” (John 13:34, NKJV). The “New Commandment” is love in action! The “New Commandment” results in doing good to others in acts of compassion and sharing, valuing others above oneself. Those living out the “New Commandment” would even be willing to lay down their life for another. As each Member of the Godhead has love for the others, so will the members of the church love one another (Matthew 22:39) and bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). JTL24 9.1

Here are two ways we can find the motivation to love as Jesus loves: JTL24 9.2

1. Focus on Jesus’ love demonstrated on Calvary. Jesus didn’t stand up for His “rights.” Driven by love, Jesus allowed Himself to be falsely accused, mocked, derided, bruised, broken, and nailed to a cross (see Question 8). JTL24 9.3

2. Pray for those who don’t love you. After all the humiliation, suffering and pain inflicted upon Him, Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). As we pray for our enemies, God transforms our resentful, disunified hearts into new hearts, capable of carrying out “Christ’s New Commandment” in His strength (Ezekiel 36:26). JTL24 9.4