Interpreting John 13:35 in the Context of Christian Witnessing

The verse from John 13:35, 'By this all men will know that you are My disciples if you have love for one another,' is often cited in discussions about Christian discipleship and witnessing. However, it is important to consider the broader context of the Bible, especially the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, to understand how these passages should be interpreted.

Using Scripture to Interpret Scripture

When interpreting biblical passages, it is beneficial to use scripture to interpret scripture. This means considering other parts of the Bible that touch on the same subject. John 13:35 emphasizes the importance of love among believers as a way to demonstrate their discipleship. However, it is crucial to also consider other biblical commands and principles related to witnessing and obedience to Christ’s wishes.

The Context of John 13:35

John 13 begins with the Lord's Passover supper, where Jesus washes the feet of His apostles. This action is a physical sign of humility and a call for forgiveness, especially in the context of ongoing repentance. Jesus then predicts His betrayal and reassures the apostles that they will need unity and strength in their faith.

unity and Endurance

Verse 35 states, 'By this all men will know that you are My disciples if you have love for one another.' This verse speaks to the importance of unity and demonstrating faith by remaining united in the face of trials. It is not about passive acceptance but active commitment and love for one another.

The Great Commission and Witnessing

Matthew 28:19 commands, 'Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.' This is often referred to as the Great Commission. It clearly emphasizes the duty of Christians to make disciples, which includes preaching the gospel, baptizing, and teaching the faith.

Distinctions in Witnessing

While the Great Commission is a call for all believers to share the gospel, not everyone is called to be an evangelist. There are different roles within the Body of Christ. Some may be gifted as evangelists, while others may excel in other roles such as pastoral care, teaching, or administrative tasks. Each member of the Body has a unique contribution to make.

The Role of Salt and Light

Beyond the Great Commission, Christians are called to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16). This is not just a passive call to be loving and kind but also an active call to reflect the values and truths of Christ in all aspects of life. By being faithful to Christ's instructions and living a life of love, Christians can serve as living testaments to the truth of the gospel.

The Philadelphia Church and Open Doors

Revelation 3:7-13 speaks about the church in Philadelphia. While they were recognized as the best of the seven churches, Christ told them to keep their doors open to those who believed, reflecting the importance of inclusivity and openness to witnessing. This also highlights the need for Christians to be prepared to share their faith when the opportunity arises.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while John 13:35 emphasizes the importance of love and unity among believers, the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 provides the overarching command to make disciples. Both aspects are important, but the way they are fulfilled may vary. All Christians are called to be salt and light, living out their faith in the world, while some are called to active witnessing and outreach.

May this understanding help us in our journey as disciples of Christ and in our missionary efforts.

Keywords: Christian Witnessing, Great Commission, Salt and Light, Spiritual Gifts