The Meaning of the Double Commandment of Love at Jesus’ Last Supper

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Third Edition

Gospel of John 13:31–35 The Double Commandment of Love

When Judas had gone, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. And when God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and God will do this very quickly. Little children, I will be with you a little longer. You will look for me, but what I said to the Jews, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come,’ I say to you. A new commandment I give to you: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:31–35 Third Edition)

The Unveiling of Judas and the Transfiguration of Jesus

Chapter 13 of the Gospel of John provides an unforgettable moment in the life of Jesus as he shares his last meal with his disciples. In this episode, Jesus reveals his betrayer, Judas, and gives his disciples a key lesson in love. This event not only marks Jesus’ martyrdom and the approach of his destiny, but also offers profound lessons about the meaning of love and community.

The Gospel begins with a powerful moment when Jesus announces that one of his disciples, Judas, will be his betrayer. As Judas leaves, Jesus begins his speech by saying, “Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in him.” This moment is important because it points to Jesus’ future suffering, which is the cornerstone of humanity’s salvation.

When Jesus says that God will be glorified in him, he is referring to his own resurrection. The power of this message is immense: Jesus’ suffering leads to his and God’s glorification. The disciples are told that they are part of this greater plan, even though the understanding is still obscure to them.

“Little children, yet a little while I am with you”

Jesus’ words “Little children, yet a little while I am with you” express his concern for his disciples. Jesus knew that his time on earth was short and his disciples were anxious about the coming separation. Peter asks, “Lord, where are you going?” and Thomas adds, “How can we know where you are going?” These questions reveal the disciples’ fear and uncertainty. As Jesus prepares to leave them, he strengthens their faith and encourages them to be courageous. We know that Jesus is preparing them for a future in which they will be his followers in the world—this is an absolutely essential message of spiritual leadership and trust.

Love one another

The new commandment that Jesus gave is the central theme of this Gospel. He urges his disciples: “Love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another.” This commandment is clear and powerful because it focuses on the practice of love by setting Jesus as the model of love.

The commandment of love is very practical. Jesus does not mean just feelings, but emphasizes the practice of love in action. For example, today we can see acts of love in the way we provide help to those in need in society, such as donating to food banks or volunteering. Such acts are proof that love is not just a word, but an active force.

Depth of Feeling and Community

Jesus’ command to love one another is especially important when considering the importance of community. Love is the force that unites believers and encourages them to support one another in difficult times. Exercising love also means caring for those who are struggling.

In today’s world, many people experience loneliness and isolation. In the United States, for example, more than half of adults report feeling some degree of loneliness. Following Jesus’ command helps create communities where people can find companionship and support. When community members help each other, it increases resilience and improves the quality of life.

The Double Commandment of Love

Jesus’ new commandment is also closely related to the Old Testament’s double commandment of love, which is to love God and our neighbor. Jesus emphasizes love of neighbor, genuine care, and giving of ourselves for the good of others. When Jesus exhorts us to love others, he is not just referring to friends or family members, but also to strangers and even enemies. This broadens the concept of love significantly and makes it an active action that requires commitment and effort on our part to make others happy. For example, we can help strangers, such as by donating clothes or giving time to a local organization.

Love in practice

Love cannot just be said; it must also be done. Jesus’ teaching is practical and encourages us to look for ways in which we can help our neighbors. This can mean not only listening, but also concretely helping when someone is in trouble. We can think about how we can show love in social issues and in different areas of people’s lives. Especially today, when many are struggling with health care, economic or social problems, it is our duty to ask ourselves what we can do to help.

Decision-makers in society and the commandment of love

It is particularly important that Jesus’ command to love one another is also an essential instruction for political decision-makers. They should think about what they would like for themselves and their neighbors in difficult times. Love guides us in creating a society where everyone can feel safe and valued. Decision-makers can learn from Jesus’ command to care for those in a weaker position. A community needs leaders who see the value of love and care, not just decision-makers who focus on their own interests.

Thoughts on Jesus’ Command

Chapter 13 of the Gospel of John opens up a profound insight into the meaning of love in the life and teachings of Jesus. The story of his last supper reminds us of the importance of loving one another and being present in the lives of our neighbors. The commandment of love is still relevant today. It calls us to take action when we feel loved and cared for. A community where everyone is ready to give and help can become a better place to live.

As a team towards a better tomorrow

When Jesus said "Love one another!", he was not just giving advice, but an invitation to care for and support one another. We must take this important commandment to heart and strive to put it into practice, for love is the key to the vitality of community and the well-being of humanity. Only together can we succeed in making our world a better place.