EGW WritingsJohn 13
Ellen G. White · Page 3 of 3
Read John 13 in the BibleJohn 13:35
Lift Him Up
Love—The Evidence of Discipleship, October 11
LHU 298.1
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35.That I May Know Him
The Proof of Our Discipleship, May 27
TMK 153.1
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 134—Love, the Need of the Church
1888 1092.2
The great truths of the Word of God are so clearly stated that none need make a mistake in understanding them. When as individual members of the church, you love God supremely and your neighbor as yourself, there will be no need of labored efforts to be in unity, for there will be oneness in Christ as a natural result. The ears will no longer be open to reports that will injure your neighbor, and no one will take up a reproach against his neighbor. The members of the church will cherish love and unity, and be as one great family. Then we shall bear the divine credentials to the world, that will testify that God has sent His Son into the world. Christ has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another” (John 13:35). The divinity of Christ is acknowledged in the unity of the children of God.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 5, 1883
2SAT 14.2
Christ has said: “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). This, then, is the credential we bear to the world that we are indeed children of God. Satan knows that if we cease to cultivate love we bear his stamp rather than the impress of heaven. We should inquire, Are we to dwell together in heaven? Then it must be in peace and harmony, and we must learn to harmonize in this world. Our work, our feelings, our actions must be Christlike. There are laborers that can work together in harmony.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Our Day of Privilege
2TT 191.1
Let everyone seek to answer the prayer of Christ: “That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee.” Oh, what unity is this! and says Christ: “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 17:21; 13:35.From Eternity Past
How to Avoid Useless Strife
EP 372.1
The prayer of Christ just before His crucifixion was that His disciples might be one as He is one with the Father, that the world might believe that God had sent Him. This touching prayer reaches down the ages, even to our day. While we are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, it should be our constant aim to reach this state of unity. Said Jesus, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 42a, 1878
3LtMs, Lt 42a, 1878, par. 4
What precious victories we might gain in the name of Jesus if we would be doers of the words of Christ! “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another.” John 13:35. Oh, how hard many make the Christian life! They climb the steep, briary path, staggering under imposed burdens, as though they must tinker up the characters of others. They make the way to heaven very hard. They do not experience the sweet peace of Christ. They do not grasp the help Jesus gives them, but they are continually grieving over supposed wrongs of others and overlook the cheering, blessed tokens for good all along their pathway. Just as soon as one has a vivid and all-absorbing consciousness of his own personal accountability to God and of his duty to his fellow men, and senses that his influence is far-reaching, stretching into eternity, he will not be satisfied with a low standard, he will not be faultfinding and critical of others. He will make his own life what he would wish the lives of others to be. He will live only in Christ, utterly and wholly dependent on Him for every beauty and loveliness of character. This is the burden of my labor—to get the minds of the people away from envy, jealousy, evil surmising. I try to impress upon them their duty to answer in their own lives the prayer of Christ, that His disciples may be one, even as He is one with the Father. This blessed oneness, this unity of believers, is the credential we bear to the world that God has sent His Son. “That they may be one, even as We are one, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:22, 21.] What joy would it bring to my heart if this sweet unity prevailed. If self would be overcome, all wrath, all bitterness, all malice, all contention and evil speaking be put away from Christ’s followers. Self wants the supremacy. Self is struggling for the mastery. If the professed followers of Christ would only follow Him, if they would only humble themselves under the hand of God, what a work might be accomplished!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 21, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 21, 1886, par. 23
Let those whose names are upon the church book closely criticize their spiritual standing before God; and let those who are confident and self-sufficient take heed to these words, “Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” [1 Corinthians 10:12.] Peter addresses the brethren in the faith, “Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:17, 18. Pressed together, united, you will be strong to resist the enemy; divided, you will become weak and fall. Let every one of you make it the business of your life to answer the prayer of Christ in your life, to be one as He was one with the Father. Oh, what unity is this! And, says Christ, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35. The precious plant of love will not grow of itself in the natural heart; it must be planted there by the Spirit of God and be carefully cultivated.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 49, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 49, 1886, par. 18
Christ says you may be known by all men if ye have love one for another. [John 13:35.] Now in order to have this love in the heart one for another, it must be cultivated; and if this grace is attained, then you will be a spectacle unto the world and to angels. We have a great truth, and we must seek to be in harmony with it. If we are living stones, we should emit light and have an influence upon others for their good. If every member should seek to honor God, then you would be a power that would be felt. We want an increase of faith. We need a faith that will enable us to meet infidelity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 5, 1883
4LtMs, Ms 5, 1883, par. 20
Christ has said: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35. This, then, is the credential we bear to the world that we are indeed children of God. Satan knows that if we cease to cultivate love, we bear his stamp rather than the impress of heaven. We should inquire, Are we to dwell together in heaven? Then it must be in peace and harmony, and we must learn to harmonize in this world. Our work, our feelings, our actions must be Christlike. There are laborers that can work together in harmony.Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 898—Love, the Need of the Church
11MR 266.2
The great truths of the Word of God are so clearly stated that none need make a mistake in understanding them. When as individual members of the church, you love God supremely and your neighbor as yourself, there will be no need of labored efforts to be in unity, for there will be oneness in Christ as a natural result. The ears will no longer be open to reports that will injure your neighbor, and no one will take up a reproach against his neighbor. The members of the church will cherish love and unity, and be as one great family. Then we shall bear the divine credentials to the world, that will testify that God has sent His Son into the world. Christ has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another” (John 13:35). The divinity of Christ is acknowledged in the unity of the children of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 79, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 79, 1886, par. 11
Jesus says, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:1, 2. What a privilege is this, to be brought into relationship with Christ! If we exhibit the piety and righteousness of Christ, we need not expect to be in any greater favor with the world than was Christ. We need the Holy Spirit from heaven to come into our hearts, that we can see Christ as He is and comprehend His great love wherewith He has loved us; then we shall love one another as Christ has loved us. From His own lips came these words, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 19, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 19, 1887, par. 10
It is the duty of every true follower of Christ to reflect light to the world. God has laid upon us the responsibility of the souls of those who are unsaved. As an ambassador of Christ, I will tell you, brethren, that if you talk more of the merits of Christ, if you engaged more frequently in humble prayer, and said less to your brethren about the failings of others, you would advance in spirituality and be far ahead of what you are now. You must give the precious plant of love some chance to grow. Jesus has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] He told His disciples to tarry in Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high. [Luke 24:49.] Said He, “Without Me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] But Paul declares, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” [Philippians 4:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 11, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 60
Many of you are self-willed, proud, hardhearted, and condemnatory, when on the contrary the whole heart should be aroused to devise ways and means for saving souls. You draw apart from your brethren because they do not speak and act to please you, when in the sight of God you are more guilty than they. You do not seek that unity that Christ prayed might exist among brethren. What impression do these variances, this emulation and strife, make upon your families and your neighbors, upon those who do not believe the truth? “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] How many of you are unsanctified in heart, and while sensitive yourselves to any reproof, you make another an offender for a word? How many of you speak words that cannot produce union, but only heartache and discouragement? How many give cause for anger, and are themselves angry without cause?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 29, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 29, 1889, par. 18
The great truths of the Word of God are so clearly stated that none need make a mistake in understanding them. When you as individual members of the church love God supremely and your neighbor as yourself, then there will be no labored efforts to be in unity. There will be a oneness in Christ. The ears to reports will be closed, and no one will take up a reproach against his neighbor. The members of the church will cherish love and unity and be as one great family. Then we shall bear the credentials to the world that will testify that God has sent His Son into the world. Christ has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] The divinity of Christ is acknowledged in the unity of the children of God. Brethren when you humble your hearts before God you will see that there is danger of Pharisaism, danger of thinking and praying as did the self-righteous Pharisee. “I thank God that I am not as other men are.” [Luke 18:11.] Oh that there may be a breaking up of the fallow ground of the heart that the seeds of truth may take deep root and spring up and bear much fruit to the glory of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 35, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 6
“By this shall all men know ye are My disciples if ye have love for one another.” [John 13:35.] If you are imbued with the love of Jesus, it will flow out from the heart. When we accept Christ, then we take on us the vows to become students in the school of Christ. Ye are dead, your lives are hid in Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 7, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 7, 1890, par. 7
Now, supposing that this oneness exists, why He says that all men shall know that ye are My disciples, because that ye have love one for another. [John 13:35.] And these are the divine credentials that as a people we should bear to the world. And if we bear these credentials to the world, it is Christ speaking through us; it is Christ working through us; and in the very atmosphere that surrounds us we are not only gathering light, but diffusing it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 1c, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 1c, 1890, par. 17
It is the duty of every true follower of Christ to reflect light to the world. God has laid upon us a responsibility for the souls of those who are unsaved. As an ambassador of Christ I would tell you, brethren, that if you talked more of the merits of Christ, if you engaged more frequently in humble prayer, and said less to your brethren of the weaknesses of others, you would advance in spirituality and be far ahead of where you now are. You must give the precious plant of love some chance to grow. Jesus has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 42, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 42, 1891, par. 9
Now God’s blessing will not rest on that institution where such things are practiced. God’s Word will ever bear the divine credentials, not the stamp and superscription of the enemy. Let Christians cherish the principles of Christianity. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye love one another.” [John 13:35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 24, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 24, 1892, par. 18
The members of the church will cherish love and unity, and be of one great family. Then we shall bear the divine credentials to the world that will testify that God has sent His Son into the world. Christ has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:35.] The divinity of Christ is acknowledge in the unity of the children of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 48, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 48, 1891, par. 42
What we want is the spirit of Jesus. When we have this, we shall love one another. Here are the credentials that we are to bear: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] We need to pray more; and when we have Christ abiding in the soul, his spirit in me will harmonize with his spirit in you; and he who controls our minds, controls also the heavenly intelligences, and they co-operate with us. Then in every council you will have the presence of One mighty in counsel. Jesus will be there. There will be no contention, no strife, no stirring up of the worst passions of the heart. What we want is to find refuge in Jesus. What we want is to be converted; and O, how I have longed for the converting power of God to go through our assemblies!Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
More Love Needed
15MR 157.1
It is the duty of every true follower of Christ to reflect light to the world. God has laid upon us a responsibility for the souls of those who are unsaved. As an ambassador of Christ I would tell you, brethren, that if you talked more of the merits of Christ, if you engaged more frequently in humble prayer, and said less to your brethren of the weaknesses of others, you would advance in spirituality and be far ahead of where you now are. You must give the precious plant of love some chance to grow. Jesus has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35).—Letter 1c, 1890, pp. 2-7. (Written May 28, 1890, from Crystal Springs, California, to Brethren Atwood and Pratt.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 76, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 76, 1893, par. 42
Love produces love; words and works of compassion and love are the good seeds dropped into the soil of the heart which will produce good fruit, for the Lord Jesus alone can give the increase. Have fervent charity (love) among yourselves. This will constrain Christians to love one another, to be good, clean, pure, and to do good; to communicate all possible good to one another and to be fruitful in good works. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” John 13:35. “This is my commandment, that ye love one another.” John 15:12. All spiritual life is indeed the life of God in the soul. Everything which works in the human agent to perfect a Christian character is divine.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98, 1896, par. 24
In locating the school buildings in Cooranbong, we have moved under the leading of God. Had those who have come here had more earnest love for Jesus, they would have shown love one for another, that the world might have had the infallible evidence that God had sent His Son into the world. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples,” Christ says. “If ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] Until Christ’s representatives are imbued with the Spirit of the Great Teacher, there will be an abundance of that inner, secret skepticism, which shuts the human heart against truth and against God. This is the leaven hidden in the meal, which permeates the whole mass.Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 89—Positive Influences on the Mind
2MCP 798.1
While we are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, it should be our constant aim to reach this state of unity. This is the evidence of our discipleship. Said Jesus, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). The apostle Peter exhorts the church, “Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another; love as brethren” (1 Peter 3:8).—Patriarchs and Prophets, 520 (1890).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 166, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 166, 1902, par. 14
“Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:5.] Those addressed in these words had lost their first love—the love of which Christ declared, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] They had done that for which God had highly commended them. “I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and how thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars; and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name’s sake hast labored, and hast not fainted.” [Revelation 2:2, 3.] But in spite of these good works, the leaving of their first love made their efforts unacceptable to God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 14, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 14, 1903, par. 43
The judgment is right upon us. We cannot afford to spend our time quarreling over little things. There is a great work before us. My brethren, we must wake up to the issues which face us, and that before this meeting closes. Heart must be cemented to heart. Pray for this; labor for it. Do not, I beg of you, allow differences to come in. May God help you to gather up the divine rays of light, and flash them across the pathway of others. May He help you to love one another as Christ has loved you. “By this,” He says, “shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] There is power with Christ to heal; there is power with Him to save to the uttermost all who come to Him. But we must be willing to be saved. We must put aside all self-sufficiency. We must be in spirit as little children, or we shall never see the kingdom of heaven. Our measurement of ourselves is too large. We are but little children. We have not attained to the full stature of men and women in Christ. There is much matured intelligence for us yet to gain. We must overcome the pride that leads us to prefer to work by ourselves, rather than with a fellow laborer, lest he rob us of glory. God wants us to press close together, that we may help one another. In Australia a minister was asked by a brother minister to leave the pulpit. “I want the people to see no one but me,” he said. And they did indeed see no one but him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 62, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 62, 1903, par. 23
Let all labor for unity and love. “By this,” said Christ, “shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] The manifestation of love for one another will be the most convincing argument to the world of the power of Christ. Let us do as Christ has said. Love is the golden chain that binds hearts together and unites them to the eternal center, the Son of God, and to God Himself.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 154, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 154, 1904, par. 10
We should carefully examine the nature of the fruit we are bearing in our lives. We are not to bear the same kind of fruit as those who are in the world will bear. We are to give evidence that our life is hid with Christ in God, that Christ is abiding in our hearts by faith. Are we ready to make any sacrifice for the good of another? Jesus made this a test of our discipleship. “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] Let us seek to better represent Christ. We must make straight paths for our feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 78, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 78, 1905, par. 2
Every step, thank God, may be taken with positive certainty. Christ will abide with His believing people. “Every one that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth.” [Matthew 7:8.] Christ does not leave His church to be a strange, undenominated power in the world. He states plainly, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] You are God’s denominated people.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 256, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 256, 1906, par. 2
The Lord Jesus in His prayer expresses the great necessity for unity of spirit among His followers. Many have not been convicted of the truth because they have seen among those who profess to believe it a spirit of jealousy, of back-biting, and of criticism for their brethren. “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 160, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 160, 1907, par. 4
Christ said, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35. Are these the divine credentials? We want to know whether we love one another. We want to know whether there is to be any casting out here. What right have we to find fault? What right have we to climb upon the judgment seat? It is not the man you find fault with, it is Christ.My Life Today
I Will Love as Christ Loved, March 17
ML 80.1
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35.Our Father Cares
I Will Love as Christ Loved, February 7
OFC 49.1
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 48—The Division of Canaan
PP 520.3
It is the will of God that union and brotherly love should exist among His people. The prayer of Christ just before His crucifixion was that His disciples might be one as He is one with the Father, that the world might believe that God had sent Him. This most touching and wonderful prayer reaches down the ages, even to our day; for His words were, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” John 17:20. While we are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, it should be our constant aim to reach this state of unity. This is the evidence of our discipleship. Said Jesus, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35. The apostle Peter exhorts the church, “Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another; love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.” 1 Peter 3:8, 9.Selected Messages Book 2
Chapter 47—Preparing for the Final Crisis
2SM 374.1
What we want is the spirit of Jesus. When we have this, we shall love one another. Here are the credentials that we are to bear: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35).…Sons and Daughters of God
We Are to Labor With Love, September 18
SD 268.1
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35.John 13:36
Jesus, Name Above All Names
Beloved Teacher and Friend, July 8
JNN 202.1
Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, where are You going?” Jesus answered him, “Where I am going you cannot follow Me now, but you shall follow Me afterward.”—John 13:36John 13:36-37
Lift Him Up
The Converted Peter, an Undershepherd, July 29
LHU 224.6
Jesus walked alone with Peter, for there was something which He wished to communicate to him only. Before His death, Jesus had said to him, “Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards.” To this Peter had replied, “Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake” (John 13:36, 37).... Peter had failed when the test came, but again he was to have opportunity to prove his love for Christ.... Jesus thus made known to Peter the very manner of his death; He even foretold the stretching forth of his hands upon the cross.... He felt willing to suffer any death for his Lord (The Desire of Ages, 812-815).The Desire of Ages
Chapter 85—By the Sea Once More
DA 815.3
Jesus walked alone with Peter, for there was something which He wished to communicate to him only. Before His death, Jesus had said to him, “Whither I go, thou canst not follow Me now; but thou shalt follow Me afterwards.” To this Peter had replied, “Lord, why cannot I follow Thee now? I will lay down my life for Thy sake.” John 13:36, 37. When he said this, he little knew to what heights and depths Christ’s feet would lead the way. Peter had failed when the test came, but again he was to have opportunity to prove his love for Christ. That he might be strengthened for the final test of his faith, the Saviour opened to him his future. He told him that after living a life of usefulness, when age was telling upon his strength, he would indeed follow his Lord. Jesus said, “When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake He, signifying by what death he should glorify God.”From Heaven With Love
Chapter 85—By the Sea Once More
HLv 542.4
Before His death, Jesus had said to Peter, “Whither I go, thou canst not follow Me now; but thou shalt follow Me afterwards.” To this Peter had replied, “Lord, why cannot I follow Thee now? I will lay down my life for Thy sake.” John 13:36, 37. He failed when the test came, but again he was to have opportunity to prove his love for Christ. That he might be strengthened for the final test of his faith, the Saviour opened to him his future. After a life of usefulness, when age was telling on his strength, he would indeed follow his Lord. Jesus said, “When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake He, signifying by what death he should glorify God.”John 13:37
This Day With God
That Thy Faith Fail Not, September 8
TDG 260.3
Patient, pitying tenderness is to be exercised toward the erring, to bring back the wandering sheep. We have an example of this in Christ’s treatment of Peter who denied his Lord with cursing and swearing. Peter thought himself strong. He said, “Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake” (John 13:37). But Jesus answered him, “Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice” (Mark 14:30). But Peter “spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise” (verse 31).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 109, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 109, 1898, par. 3
Patient, pitying tenderness is to be exercised toward the erring, to bring back the wandering sheep. We have an example of this in Christ’s treatment of Peter, who denied his Lord with cursing and swearing. Peter thought himself strong. He said, “Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.” But Jesus answered him, “Verily, I say unto thee, That in this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.” But Peter “spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise.” [John 13:37; Mark 14:30, 31.]John 13:37-38
Our High Calling
Beware of Self-confidence, October 28
OHC 307.1
Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice. John 13:37, 38.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 324, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, par. 16
There are reasons why we should not put our trust in men who are placed in positions of large responsibility. It is often difficult for them to maintain a humble and teachable spirit. They suppose that their position gives them the power to control their fellows, and they flatter themselves, as did Peter, that they will not fall under temptation. When in the hour of His trial Christ declared to His disciples that they would all forsake Him, Peter answered, “Lord, why cannot I follow Thee now? I will lay down my life for Thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for My sake? Verily, verily I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow till thou hast denied Me thrice.” [John 13:37, 38.] Throughout His trial Christ preserved His humility. Peter’s self-confident assertion was tested, and he failed to endure the test. He denied his Lord in the hour of temptation.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
John 13:34-35
Life Sketches Manuscript
Some Erroneous Theories
Luke 1:202 Corinthians 4:6-9, 17, 18John 16:151 Peter 1:5-7Acts 2:4, 429-311 Thessalonians 3:8Matthew 7:6-12, 15; 24:24Mark 15:17, 18Colossians 2:6-8John 9:20-27; 14:13-15; 15:7, 8 Hebrews 10:35-39; 4:10-12 Mark 1:23-25Philippians 1:6, 27-29; 2:13-15 Romans 8:38, 39Ephesians 6:10-18; 4:32 Revelation 3:7-13; 14:4, 51 Peter 1:22Philippians 3:20John 13:34, 35James 5:7, 82 Corinthians 13:5Philippians 3:211 Corinthians 3:10-13Revelation 14:14-17Acts 20:28-30Hebrews 4:9Galatians 1:6-9Revelation 21:2; 14:1; 22:1-5Luke 12:3-7; 10, 11
Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
The Stranger Addresses the People
EGWE 277.1
“You seem willing to wound and bruise the hearts of one another. Is this the pattern Jesus has given you? Where is His manner of dealing? Do you find yourselves sustained in having so little love and forbearance, so little patience for your brethren? Have you forgotten the words of Christ, ‘A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another? [John 13:34, 35] ‘He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.’ [John 14:21]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 4, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 4, 1885, par. 6
We want to retain Christian fellowship and love in our midst. And remember that Christ has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:35.] Can we take this all in? How much has Christ loved us? He denied Himself and was willing to endure every sacrifice, that we might have eternal life. He for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich; and He says, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” [Verse 34.] Then let us put Satan out of our hearts and invite Christ to come in.Early Writings
Texts Referred to on Preceding Page
EW 27.2
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:34, 35.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 32, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 32, 1887, par. 8
“Are you not forgetful of the sufferings of your Lord? Are you not forgetful of the estimate He has placed upon man whom He has purchased with His own blood? You seem willing to wound and bruise the hearts of one another. Is this the pattern Jesus has given you? Where is His manner of dealing? Do you find yourselves sustained in having so little love and forbearance, so little patience for your brethren? Have you forgotten the words of Christ, ‘A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another’ John 13:34, 35? ‘He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself unto him’ John 14:21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 21, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 21, 1888, par. 11
In my feebleness I entreated that Satan should not have any place and should not exult over the people who have had so great light and so great opportunities and privileges. I implored our people in Battle Creek to cherish tenderness, kindness, and esteem for one another, to close the door to the enemy and to cultivate that love that Jesus has manifested toward the erring children of men. He gave His own life that they should not perish, but have everlasting life. He gave His disciples His dying testimony, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:34, 35.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 35, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 35, 1887, par. 8
I went to the early morning meeting and spoke from John 13:34, 35. We had a precious season. Many excellent testimonies were borne, and all seemed to feel deeply. Many tears were shed, showing that hearts were softened. One brother lives quite a distance from here. He lives on the borders of Denmark. He has lived in America; received the truth in Indianapolis and has come back to Sweden to labor with his countrymen. He is a very plain, unlearned man, but he has not buried his talent, but used it to the very best of his ability, and he has worked in a silent way until he has been the means of bringing eighteen to the truth. He is sincere and humble, and the Lord blesses him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 40, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 40, 1892, par. 43
While Christ was only a step from the cross He spoke in tones of authority, “A new commandment give I unto you, That ye love one another ... By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] We shall hope in God that He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, and who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks, will reveal His power to His people in Australia. We are looking to Jesus, for we can do nothing of ourselves, and we must be distrustful [of self], whatever the circumstances or the appearances, [and] we must look only to Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 13a, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 13a, 1891, par. 35
The attributes which Christ appreciates most in man is charity out of a pure heart. This is the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. “Every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God.” [1 John 4:7.] The Lord Jesus has said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 30a, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 30a, 1892, par. 23
“A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] “These things I command you that ye love one another.” [Verse 17.] These are plain words. There is no need of misunderstanding them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 19d, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 19d, 1892, par. 31
As Christ was about to leave His disciples, He said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another.” This is the measure with which we are to love one another: “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Again He said, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you; continue ye in my love.” [John 15:8, 9.] Mark the words of Christ and bear them in mind, “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 16, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 16, 1892, par. 1
The attribute that Christ appreciates most in man is charity (love) out of a pure heart. This is the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. “Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” [1 John 4:7.] The Lord Jesus has said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 110, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 110, 1893, par. 7
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:34, 35. Satan understands the power of such a testimony as a witness to the world of what grace can do in transforming character. He is not pleased that such a light shall shine forth from those who claim to believe in Jesus Christ, and he will work every conceivable device to break this golden chain which links heart to heart of those who believe the truth, and binds them up in close connection with the Father and the Son.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 77, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 77, 1893, par. 21
God so loved the world, that He manifested His love by giving His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Jesus said: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another.” “This is My commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 13:34, 35; 15:12.] Let your zeal be manifest, not in exposing your variances but in cultivating the precious plant of love, just as Jesus has told us to do.God’s Amazing Grace
Revealed by Love, August 17
AG 237.1
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:34, 35.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 61, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 61, 1893, par. 21
Elder Smith’s action in publishing Elder Jones’ article, and then his own directly opposite, is presenting to our opponents broken ranks instead of a united front, and turning the weapons of warfare against our brethren. What kind of policy is this for Seventh-day Adventists? What does the True Witness say of such workers? Is it not time that a different order of things should come in? Is it of no account whether men heed the words of Christ or work away from them, showing that they have more confidence in their own judgment than in the words of our Lord and Saviour? Think you that this would be so if the children of God loved one another as Christ has loved them? “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] See Romans 12:9. “Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned.” [1 Timothy 1:5.] “See that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.” [1 Peter 1:22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 6, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 6, 1893, par. 9
Gisborne, October 12, 1893. Hear the words of One who spake as never man spake, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] The amazing love of God for our world has been newly set forth in the life and character of Jesus Christ. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Jesus, the only begotten Son of God, so loved fallen men, who were His enemies, that He gave His life a ransom to redeem them. Oh, with what tenderness, with what forbearance, did the Saviour love! Although that love was beaten back by the resistance of the rocky sin-bound souls, it returned again in stronger waves of light and affection. Of Him the Word declares, “He shall not fail nor be discouraged.” [Isaiah 42:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 8, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 8, 1893, par. 2
How stands the case with us? “As I have loved you.” [John 13:34.] How much? I laid aside my crown, that I might come to the earth, that humanity might touch humanity. Love one another as Christ has loved us. If we do this, the world will know that we are of Christ. “Love as Christ has loved us.” “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [Verse 35.] John 15:12-17. We want you to see that professing to keep commandments of God is not an evidence that we keep them. Love to God and love to our neighbor is required.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 56, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 56, 1894, par. 9
The campground is in one of the most popular suburbs of Sydney. We are pleased to see and speak to the large congregations of most intelligent people. They are interested, and say that they never heard such preaching before. On the Sabbath, after I had spoken upon the love of God, from (John 13:34, 35), one man whose hair is white with age said, “I never heard such preaching as that woman gave us since I was born into the world. These people make Christ the complete center and system of truth.” On Sunday we had an immense congregation. The large tent was full, there was a wall of people on the outside, and carriages filled with people in the street.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 48, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 48, 1894, par. 25
Jesus said, “Let him that is without sin among you cast the first stone.” Then He continued to trace the peculiar secret sins of the individual accusers. One after another discerned the fact that Jesus knew the sin that the sinner had thought was hidden so deep that it would not be discovered. Conscious of guilt they left the trembling woman alone with Jesus. Jesus turned and looked upon the woman and inquired, “Hath no man condemned thee?” She answered, “No man, Lord.” Then Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn thee: go and sin no more.” [John 8:7-11.] Let those who name the name of Jesus take heed to the new commandment which Jesus has given to His disciples. He says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Let the teachings of Jesus have the weight that they deserve. Let us not be simply hearers of the word but doers also.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 83, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 83, 1894, par. 7
Jesus says, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another” (not love those merely who love you and agree with you in all your ideas, but love your brethren, notwithstanding they do not extol you as perfect). How should we love one another? “As I have loved you; that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] This then is the witness to the world, the testimony beyond any controversy, that those who profess to believe the truth have love one for another.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 79, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 79, 1894, par. 5
I spoke from John 13:34, 35. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another. ... By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” The Lord gave me great freedom, and His Holy Spirit rested upon me. These are the words of truth and, if practiced, are full of present and eternal results. How essential that we cultivate love to God and love to our fellow men. Let all remember that upon these two principles hang all the law and the prophets. The Lord will cooperate with the human agent, but He does not crush the human agent or compel the will. Grace and truth are victorious. Faith works by love and purifies the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 34, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 34, 1894, par. 16
But unless there is practical self-denial and self-sacrifice for the good of others—in the family circle, in the neighborhood and in the church—it is evident that we are not Christians, no matter what may be our profession. But he who has the spirit of self-denial for others’ good is copying the divine Pattern. Jesus says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this (love revealed in practical life) shall all men know that ye are my disciples if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] This sign will be significant of the existence of unselfish love. Unless we sacrifice our own opinions, impressions and feelings, we shall be deceived in ourselves, and shall entertain ideas and opinions of our neighbors that are not in harmony with Christ. We shall show that we are not imitators of our professed Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 84, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 84, 1894, par. 9
From the moment of conversion those who receive Christ are to become the light of the world. They are to reflect the glory of the bright and morning star. Jesus would impress upon His church the fact that they are His brethren, that they are to unite with Him as laborers together with God. They are to be a brotherhood for the saving of humanity. Christ expects a very different work from the churches than that which has been given Him. The people of God will not answer the expectation of Christ until they are converted and prepared to obey the commandment that Christ has given, He says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Again he says, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 50, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 50, 1894, par. 14
God wants a love to circulate all through our ranks that we have scarcely dreamed of; we have just had but a faint glimmer of it. But we must have that love, or shortly we will find that the candlestick is gone, the light is quenched. Who is it that is walking among the candlesticks? It is Jesus Christ. He is imbuing every one that loves Him. All have a work to do through God, and that is to love one another. Just let us read it. It is a very strong thing and we had better know something about it—a good deal more than we know now—every one of us. (John 13:34): “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” How much, Lord? “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [Verses 34, 35.]9LtMs, Ms 50, 1894, par. 15
Now if God designed that there should be a love experienced every day of our lives, we have no need to hide it and bottle it up here, and after some of us are dead break the bottle and let the fragrance out. We want, while we are living on this earth, to bring all the brightness, all the tenderness, all the sweetness and graces of Christ into our lives that we shall impart them to the lives of others. That is what we read. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.” [Verse 35.] Why will they know it? Why there is a living connection between the human agent and his God; there is a communication open between God and the soul of the human agent, and wherever he goes he carries the fragrance of Christ, and wherever he goes it is unexplainable to the unbeliever but he knows that fragrance is there; he knows it. There is not a sharp word, there is not a cutting word. Everything is all battened, as you may say, with the Holy Spirit of God, with the grace of Jesus Christ. This is Christ’s property.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Our Mighty Helper
GW92 460.1
We should make it our daily care to cultivate sympathy and affection for one another. This is the fruit that grows on the Christian tree; it does not produce the briers and thorns of hatred and strife. The harsh, unsympathetic words we sometimes hear spoken, and the hardheartedness we see manifested, are wholly satanic, and this spirit must be supplanted by the spirit of Christ. Jesus bids us, “Love one another, as I have loved you.... By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] He is our mighty Helper; and if he abides in our hearts, we shall manifest his spirit. We shall love one another; we cannot help it; for he is love.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 26, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 26, 1894, par. 6
Brother Haskell, I am sorry that there are so many professors of religion, while there are so few Christians. This is why the world is not moved. We must live and talk the commandments of God. See (John 13:34, 35); here is a positive requirement that the followers of Christ love one another as He has loved them. Their character is to be a reproduction of the character of Christ. The unselfish, disinterested love which appeared in Christ will appear in the life of His true followers. The tenderness, the patience, the goodness of Christ will be revealed in the Christian. If we are His disciples, Christ’s solicitude to save souls will be revealed in our tones of entreaty, in our persevering, untiring efforts to save the perishing.9LtMs, Lt 26, 1894, par. 21
We are to be found faithful stewards of the grace of Christ. We shall be called to give an account of our stewardship. Let our one pound be used to the very best of our ability, for our accountability is according to our known capacity to trade on our Lord’s goods. The man to whom He had lent one talent, He will not require to account for three, nor will He accept the return of the one talent merely. The talents are to be improved by use, and increased. He who has but one may by the exercise of wisdom and tact gain another. Then with the two he may gain other two, and thus the work goes on in God’s appointed way. As we endeavor to communicate the light God has given, it multiplies. Every man is held responsible not only for the right use of the intrusted talent, but for the additional talents which through use [it is his privilege] to gain. We must arouse and be sanctified to God, soul, body, and spirit, holding everything in subordination to the law of Jesus Christ. The New Commandment given by our Saviour, “that ye love one another,” is to be practiced. Jesus said, “as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.] Love to one another is the evidence of our discipleship.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 41, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 41, 1894, par. 5
I spoke from John 13:34, 35. “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another. ... By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” The Lord gave me great freedom, and His Holy Spirit rested upon me. These are the words of truth and, if practiced, are full of present and eternal results. How essential that we cultivated love to God and love to our fellow men. Let all remember that upon these two principles hang all the law and the prophets. The Lord will co-operate with the human agent, but He does not crush the human agent or compel the will. Grace and truth are victorious. Faith works by love and purifies the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 42, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 42, 1894, par. 2
We are in the midst of camp meeting and are having some very important meetings. Today decided progress has been made. I spoke Friday morning, Sabbath morning and afternoon, and Sunday morning and afternoon with great freedom. We had a large attendance on Sabbath. In the afternoon I spoke from John 13:34, 35. After the discourse there was a social meeting, in which seventy-five testimonies were borne in about forty minutes. Two unbelievers spoke well and seemed decidedly moved. The Lord is stirring up the community around here.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 45, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 45, 1894, par. 8
Every arbitrary exaction of man toward his fellow man will react upon himself in double measure. Just in proportion as the human agent is a partaker of the divine nature he will be in sympathy with Christ. Jesus says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye”—tolerate one another? No,—“that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 6, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 6, 1895, par. 1
“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that we through his poverty might be rich.” [2 Corinthians 8:9.] The Captain of our salvation made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant in order that humanity might be allied to divinity. Man is to represent Christ. He is to be longsuffering toward his fellowmen, to be patient, forgiving, and full of Christ-like love. He who is truly converted will manifest respect for his brethren; he will do as Christ has commanded. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Where the love of Christ abounds in the soul there will be an expression of that love that will be understood by the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 68, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 68, 1896, par. 11
“A new commandment I give unto you,” said Christ, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment, That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] “Beloved,” writes John, “let us love one another; for love is of God, and he that loveth is born of God.” [1 John 4:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 39, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, par. 12
We see that which the Lord requires of us. Shall we not put our pride and our dignity where it will not be as easily bruised and wounded? Shall we not lay it all at the feet of Christ? Shall we not allow our minds to be sharpened by the Holy Spirit, that we may not act like children in our association with one another, but as Christ’s brave soldiers, going without the camp, and bearing the reproach for His sake? “A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ says, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Shall we not, at the beginning of the year 1897, covenant with God that we will not be like the children of the wicked one, pettish, envious, jealous, and full of evil surmisings, but like the tree that is known by its good fruit. Then by our unity and love for one another all men will understand that we are Christians. Shall we not cherish love, rather than strife and malice and hatred?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 126, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 126, 1897, par. 12
This was the class of work done at Adelaide. All should work earnestly to close the door to that class who are serving under Satan’s banner, and doing their best to counterwork the prayer Christ made to His Father just prior to His crucifixion: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.] “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 139, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 139, 1897, par. 10
A large portion of our soul is unreclaimed, unsanctified. The objects and idols of sense are worshiped before the Lord of hosts. Self-indulgence reigns. There is a moral waste of our God-given talents. We must feel the burden of souls before we will put aside our frivolity to work for the Master. His work is to be our work, His love is to be our love. “A new commandment I give unto you.” It was not new in principle, for it was definitely given in the Old Testament, but it was new to the disciples, because it was so entirely different from the instruction given by the Jewish teachers. “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another, as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1323—Brief Writings on Short Scriptural Passages and Practical Christian Living
18MR 148.4
There are many who seem willing to wound and bruise the hearts of their brethren. Are they following the example Christ has left them? Where in the record of His dealing with men do they find themselves sustained in showing so little forbearance and patience in dealing with their brethren? Have they forgotten the words, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” [John 13:34, 35]? That which distinguishes Christians from worldlings is the manifestation of Christlikeness, which by its pure influence cleanses the heart from selfishness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 100, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 100, 1897, par. 6
A great and good work ought to have been done in Sydney. The failure was the result of the lack of unity. The churches did not act as if they felt under obligation to heed the Bible on this point, to cherish love and respect for one another. “A new commandment I give unto you,” said Christ, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 186, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 186, 1897, par. 12
We should work earnestly to close the door against those who in this way are serving under Satan’s banner, for they are doing their best to counter work the prayer of Christ: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one: as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.] To His disciples Christ said, “A new commandment give I unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 22, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 22, 1897, par. 29
Thousands might be working in this line. They will do better work if educated, but take heed lest too much stress is placed on an education in our schools as a necessity. If the human agent will place himself under the guidance of Christ, using all the opportunities he has to gain knowledge, he will be taught of God. If he has a burning desire to seek, and to save the souls that are ready to perish, the Holy Spirit will be his efficiency. He will catch the meaning of the words of Christ, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another. ... By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 123, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 123, 1898, par. 19
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy mind, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength; and thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.] But Christ, just before He left His disciples, declared to them, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Here we see the standard is lifted up higher and still higher. “By this shall all men know that ... ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] The disciples could not then comprehend His words, but after His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension they understood His love as they had never understood it before.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 160, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 160, 1898, par. 23
I call your attention to the message Christ left with His disciples. A “new commandment I give unto you,” He said, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Why should this commandment be new to the disciples? The words, “As I have loved you” were yet to be fulfilled by the offering He was about to make for the sins of the world. As Christ had loved them, the disciples were to love one another. They were to show forth the love abiding in their hearts for men, women, and children by doing all in their power for their salvation. But they were to reveal a specially tender love for all of the same faith.13LtMs, Ms 160, 1898, par. 26
“And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that aught of the things which he possessed were his own, and they had all things in common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.” [Verses 31-33.] Thus the disciples kept the new commandment, “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.]13LtMs, Ms 160, 1898, par. 28
“This is my commandment, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 15:12; 13:34.] If our hearts are not purified from our hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong, if they are not cleansed from inherent sin, Christ cannot enter. The work of grace cannot be carried on in the heart that is not rooted and grounded in the love of Christ Jesus. Paul writes, “That ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints, what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” [Ephesians 3:17-19.] Entire sanctification is essential. Stretch every spiritual nerve and muscle, that you may attain to perfect conformity to the will of God. Talk this, pray this. Keep in view what must be done to build one another up in the most holy faith. Without holiness no man can see God. This unduly estimating self and demeriting others is a stream that flows from Satan into the heart to flow forth to others.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 56, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 17
Here are lessons for us to learn. If we are in fellowship with Christ, we shall be in fellowship with our brethren, and shall learn to keep that harmony that should ever exist between the believers. Love must be cherished one for another, for the strengthening of the church, and that we may give to the world the very best impressions of our faith. “A new commandment I give unto you,” said Christ, “that ye love one another: as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Why did the Lord Jesus call this a new commandment? Because it was always to be new to them. It had been covered up by their traditions, and buried out of sight. It had not been put into practice.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 158, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 158, 1898, par. 17
“A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ says, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Those who cherish this love carry with them the credentials that God sent His Son to save sinners. Christ’s Spirit, pervading the hearts of those who believe in Him, develops Christ like traits of character. Christ gives them His own attributes. This is what God requires, and Jesus gives the promise of the Holy Spirit, that this result may be produced.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 43a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 43a, 1898, par. 21
Thus saith the Lord to all who are laborers in word and in doctrine, to whom is entrusted the care of the churches: You are to be faithful stewards of the grace of Christ. You are to watch for souls as they that must give an account. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Read these words attentively, and ask yourself if you are obeying them to the letter. What are the credentials by which you show that God has sent His Son into the world? The love that you manifest for each other.13LtMs, Ms 43a, 1898, par. 25
“By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] Thus we give proof of Christ’s power; thus we show that we are lights shining amid the moral darkness. There would today have been a large army in our ranks, if we had loved one another as Christ has loved us. But Satan is constantly at work to create disunion, disaffection, discord, variance, and strife, over shall matters at first, and then over greater, until man places himself where he has no love for any of his brethren, and therefore his professed love for Christ is a farce. It is theoretical, such as the Pharisees had when they refused to receive the Son of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 75, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 28
What kind of an impression are you making upon the world by your unadvised movements? Christ has commanded you to love one another. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He declared, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, That ye love one another.” [John 15:16, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 82, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 82, 1898, par. 25
And Christ declares: “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit, so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I love you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love: even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 15:8-14; 13:34, 35.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 863—Christian Unity
11MR 49.3
We see that which the Lord requires of us. Shall we not put our pride and our dignity where it shall not be so easily bruised and wounded? Shall we not lay it all at the feet of Christ? Shall we not allow our minds to be sharpened by the Holy Spirit, that we may not act like children in our association with one another, but as Christ’s brave soldiers, going without the camp and bearing the reproach for His sake? “A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ says, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:34, 35). Shall we not, at the beginning of the year 1897, covenant with God that we will not be like the children of the wicked one, pettish, envious, jealous, and full of evil surmisings, but like the tree that is known by its good fruit? Then by our unity and love for one another all men will understand that we are Christians. Shall we not cherish love, rather than strife and malice and hatred? [John 15:7-14 and Ephesians 2:1-8 quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 133a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 133a, 1898, par. 14
“I will set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand I shall not be moved; therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth; my flesh also shall rest in hope.” [Psalm 16:8, 9.] Sin has expelled from the heart the love of God. “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you that ye also love one another; by this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. ... This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 13:34, 35; 15:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 55, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 55, 1898, par. 2
Christ has declared, “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:12-14.] “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another: as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 39a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 39a, 1898, par. 5
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy mind, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength; and thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.] Just before He left His disciples to return to heaven, Christ declared, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Here we see the standard lifted higher and still higher. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] The disciples could not then comprehend Christ’s words, but after His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, they understood His love as never before.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 160a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 25
I call your attention to the message that Christ left with His disciples: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another: as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Why should this commandment have been new to the disciples? The words “As I have loved you” were yet to be demonstrated in the offering Christ would make for the sins of the world. As Christ had loved the disciples, so they were charged to love one another. They were to show forth the love abiding in their hearts for men, women, and children by doing all in their power for their salvation. They were to see in them the purchase of the blood of the Son of God. But they were to reveal a specially tender love for all their brethren.13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 28
“And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul; neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed were his own, and they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus; and great grace was upon them all.” [Verses 31-33.] Thus the disciples understood and kept the commandment, “As I have loved you, That ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.]13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 30
“This is my commandment, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:12; 13:34.] If our hearts are not purified from our hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong, if they are not cleansed from inherent sin, Christ cannot enter. A work of grace cannot be carried on in the heart that is not rooted and grounded in the love of Christ Jesus. Paul writes, “That ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and depth and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” [Ephesians 3:17-19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 131, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 131, 1899, par. 14
Christ has specified the measure of love we are to show for one another. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He declared, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” By this practical love, seen by the world, “shall all men know that ye are my disciples.” [John 13:34, 35.] When the softening, subduing influence of the Spirit of God rules the hearts of those who are connected with His service, they will honor Him by keeping the new commandment, new because Christ said, “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 121, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 121, 1899, par. 38
In the relation of men to God’s institutions there must be revealed something higher and holier than natural love. If the truth as it is in Jesus abides in the heart, it will be revealed by the love of which Christ told His disciples not long before He left them to be offered up for the sins of the world. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He said, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Nothing short of this love will be accepted by God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 63, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 63, 1899, par. 7
Christ is the great Physician, not only of the body, but of the soul. He restores man to his God. God permitted His only begotten Son to be bruised, that healing properties might flow forth from Him to cure all our diseases. Physicians are to act in Christ’s stead. Every physician who has planted his feet upon the Rock of Ages draws from the great Physician His restoring power. Christ’s plans are to be carried out more definitely by the Christian physician. As Christ was about to leave His disciples, those who were to represent Him to the world, He gave them a new commandment. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He said, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] That love they knew not until they saw the suffering and death of Jesus Christ upon the cross of Calvary.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 146, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 146, 1899, par. 14
“A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ says, “That ye love one another: as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love for one another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “As the Father hath love me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:9-12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 133, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 133, 1899, par. 25
Christ declared, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment, That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] This is the fruit that is to be given back to God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 14, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 14, 1899, par. 18
Christ’s admonition to His disciples is to be heeded by us. Almost His last words before He gave His life for the world were, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another.” How much, Lord? “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment that ye love one another as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth; but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you; and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he may give it you.” [John 15:12-16.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
MR No. 1142—Physicians Are Reformers and Are to Follow Christ’s Example; The Sabbath a Sign; The Importance Of Attention to Little Things
15MR 31.2
As Christ was about to leave His disciples, those who were to represent Him to the world, He gave them a new commandment. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He said, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another” [John 13:34, 35]. That love they knew not until they saw the suffering and death of Jesus Christ upon the cross of Calvary. The new commandment of love was given in behalf of the weak, the wretched, the helpless.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 9, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 9, 1899, par. 5
Christ declares, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Again Christ declares, “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 34, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 8
Christ declares, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] This light is all contained in the great commandment of love. “A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ said, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 10
To be children of God, members of the royal family, means more than many suppose. Those who are accounted by God as His children will reveal Christlike love for one another. They will live and work for one object—the proper representation of Christ to the world. By their love and unity they will show to the world that they bear the divine credentials. By the nobility of love and self-denial, they will show those around them that they are true followers of the Saviour. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [Verse 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 92, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 92, 1900, par. 28
O the evil of the desire to gain personal ends! God would not have this principle prevail in the churches. “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” [Matthew 7:12.] Obey this Word, and men will soon be convinced that the religion of Seventh-day Adventists is genuine. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 37, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 37, 1900, par. 3
Just before leaving His disciples, to suffer the penalty of transgression that man might be given an opportunity to return to his loyalty, the Saviour said to them, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Shall we not labor to give this sign to the world? Christ’s love for His people is unchanging. It is the work of the enemy to cause dissension, strife, and alienation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 76, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, par. 7
Christ declared, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] This is the love church members are to manifest for one another. Such love will exert a powerful influence in favor of the truth. Christ desires to work through His appointed agencies to make His cause a power in our world. He says, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:13-15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 130, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 10
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.] The Lord our Redeemer had not yet demonstrated fully that love to its completeness. After His condemnation in the judgment hall, His crucifixion on the cross, when He cried out in clear, loud voice, “It is finished,” that love stands forth as an exhibition of a new love—“as I have loved you”—is demonstrated. [John 19:30.] Can the human mind take this in? Can we obey the commandment given? Christ requires nothing of any soul that it is not possible for him to do. “By this (revealing of unity and love one for the other) shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. ... If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” John 14:21, 23. “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:8-12.]16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 47
Christ had a mission to educate His workers. The mission of Christ, from the throne of heaven, [was to] work and suffer and die for the world, that it might be saved. He sent forth the twelve, with their commission, two and two; then sent out the seventy to go before Him whither He Himself would go. They were to proclaim the kingdom of God through Judea, and He taught them [that] piety must be diffusive. Christ abolishes the distinction between neighbor and enemy as regards those who need light and truth, and they [His workers] are to look on the world as their field. Not a member of the church is to be an uninterested faction. Life is to be held in their mind as under obligation to do service [for] Christ in their devising and planning from the first period of conversion, to consecrate the entire life-influence to unite with Christ in the object for which He gave His life. He would have them [be] patterns of His own love for fallen humanity. They are to love one another as Christ has loved them. The principles of this kind of labor in love for one another were the badge of their connection with Christ. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 15, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, par. 24
Those who love God supremely will love their fellow men as themselves, because “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] And Christ says to us, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, par. 29
“As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [Verse 34.] Wonderful statement; but oh, how poorly practiced!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 16, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, par. 51
In one of His last lessons, Christ said to His disciples, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another, as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Might we not better without delay realize that we have fallen far short of loving one another as Christ has loved us?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 127, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, par. 32
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, par. 33
“As I have loved you.” [Verse 34.] The crowning act in the sacrifice of love was yet to come. Soon, in the scenes of the Saviour’s betrayal, trial, and crucifixion, the disciples were to see the measure of His love. They were to see Him hanging on the cross in dying agony, bearing the sins of the world. In this, and in his resurrection and ascension, they were to see a love so broad and deep that all doubt as to the meaning of the new commandment would be swept away. The knowledge of the Saviour’s matchless love for them was to bind them heart to heart, preparing the way for the Lord to anoint them with His Spirit. United by this love, they were to go forth to witness with convincing power to the divinity of their Leader. And their Christlike love for one another was to be the sign of their discipleship.16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, par. 34
How much of this love have we shown for one another? Might we not better begin without delay to love one another as Christ has loved us? Would we not then be a power for God in the work? “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [Verse 35.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
MR No. 1180—Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth
15MR 300.1
God so loved the world that He manifested His love by giving His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Jesus said: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” [John 13:34, 35]. “This is My commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you” [John 15:12]. Let your zeal be manifest, not in exposing your variances but in cultivating the precious plant of love, just as Jesus has told us to do.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 11, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 11, 1902, par. 13
Just before His crucifixion Christ said to His disciples, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.” [John 13:34, 35.]17LtMs, Ms 11, 1902, par. 15
How was this a new commandment? Christ had already declared the last six commands of the decalogue to be summed up in the words, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Matthew 22:39, 40.] What, then, was there new in the command to love one another? The disciples had not loved one another as Christ had loved them. And they had not yet seen the fulness of the love Christ was to reveal in man’s behalf. They were yet to see Him dying on the cross for their sins. Through His life and death they were to receive a new conception of love. The command to love one another was to gain a new meaning in the light of His self-sacrifice. In the light shining from the cross of Calvary they were to understand the meaning of the words, “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 52, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 52, 1902, par. 12
Let men be careful how they treat the purchase of the blood of Christ. Let them not forget the prayer offered by the Saviour just before He left His disciples for the long struggle in the garden of Gethsemane. Let them not forget the high estimate He has placed on human beings by purchasing them at the sacrifice of His life. There are many who seem willing to wound and bruise the hearts of their brethren. Are they following the example Christ has left them? Where in the record of His dealing with men do they find themselves sustained in showing so little forbearance and patience in dealing with their brethren? Have they forgotten the words, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] That which distinguishes Christians from worldlings is the manifestation of Christlikeness, which by its pure influence cleanses the heart from selfishness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 141, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 141, 1902, par. 20
The fierce spirit that has been coming into our ranks for more than twenty years is not in harmony with Christian work. It is not the spirit of the medical missionary work. Get up out of the chair of judgment, where you are hurting yourself by thrusting at your friend or your brother. Call not your brother a sinner, for in so doing, you show yourself to be a sinner. Cease your warfare with one another. Just before His crucifixion Christ said to His disciples, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 46, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 46, 1902, par. 28
Our Lord Jesus Christ enjoins us to be united with one another: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:17-21.] This is the great object that is to be ever before us. The unity that He prayed might exist among His disciples gives evidence to the world that God has sent His Son into the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 126, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 126, 1902, par. 4
“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]17LtMs, Lt 126, 1902, par. 5
Why did Christ call this a new commandment? Because He was yet to give, in the sacrifice of His life, the crowning evidence of His love. When this offering would be made, the gift would be complete, and the disciples would understand more fully the meaning of the new commandment, “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [Verse 34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 151, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 151, 1902, par. 10
“A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ said, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 141, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 141, 1902, par. 11
Hear the words of Christ, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 19, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 19, 1902, par. 5
Speaking again of this love, Christ said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 68, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 68, 1903, par. 21
From the light given in this Scripture, cannot we understand the relation that Christians should sustain to one another? Then with what strictness we should guard our every word and act, in order to foster the unity that we are to manifest to the world! This unity is the love spoken of by Christ when He said to His disciples: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]18LtMs, Ms 68, 1903, par. 22
“As I have loved you.” Not until after their Master’s great humiliation and suffering in Gethsemane, in the presence of the High Priest, in Pilate’s judgment hall, and on Calvary’s cross did the disciples understand these words. Our Saviour was subjected to humiliation such as few are called upon to bear. The hopes of the disciples died with the death of their Lord. But after He came forth from Joseph’s new tomb and over the rent sepulcher proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life;” “behold, I live forevermore” [John 11:25; Revelation 1:18], His disciples understood more fully the meaning of the words: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]