Introduction

Love, as a commandment, holds a central place in Christian theology and ethics. It is not merely an emotion or sentiment but a divine mandate that encompasses the entirety of the believer's life. The commandment to love is rooted in the character of God and is exemplified in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. This entry explores the biblical foundation and implications of love as a commandment, drawing from the Berean Standard Bible .

Old Testament Foundations

The commandment to love is deeply embedded in the Old Testament, particularly in the Mosaic Law. In Deuteronomy 6:5, the Israelites are instructed: "And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." This commandment, known as the Shema, underscores the total devotion and allegiance required of God's people. It establishes love for God as the foremost duty, integrating heart, soul, and strength in a holistic commitment.

Leviticus 19:18 further extends the commandment of love to interpersonal relationships: "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This directive emphasizes the ethical dimension of love, calling for justice, mercy, and compassion towards others.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ reaffirms and expands the commandment of love. When questioned about the greatest commandment, Jesus responds in Matthew 22:37-39 : "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’" Here, Jesus encapsulates the essence of the Law and the Prophets, highlighting love as the foundation of all divine commandments.

The Gospel of John further illuminates the commandment of love through the words of Jesus. In John 13:34-35 , Jesus instructs His disciples: "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." This new commandment elevates the standard of love to the sacrificial and selfless love demonstrated by Christ Himself.

Theological Implications

The commandment to love is not optional for believers; it is a defining characteristic of the Christian life. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, reiterates the primacy of love. In Romans 13:8-10 , he writes: "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The commandments... are summed up in this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."

Paul's discourse in 1 Corinthians 13 further elaborates on the nature of love, describing it as patient, kind, and enduring. Love, according to Paul, is the greatest of all virtues and the enduring mark of true faith.

Practical Application

The commandment to love calls for active and intentional practice in the life of believers. It demands a love that transcends mere feelings and is expressed through actions. In 1 John 3:18 , the apostle exhorts: "Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth." This love is to be evident in the believer's relationship with God, fellow Christians, and the broader community.

The commandment to love also challenges believers to reflect the character of God, who is love (1 John 4:8). It is through love that Christians bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel and fulfill their calling as ambassadors of Christ in the world.