John 13:34
What does John 13:34 mean?
A plain-English look at John 13:34 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 13:34 means
Jesus gives a “new commandment”: that they love one another, “even as I have loved you.” The command to love is not new in itself; what is new is the model and measure—His love. He sets His own self-giving, patient, cleansing love as the standard for their relationships. This love is not sentiment but action, as the footwashing just displayed. It will soon be seen supremely at the cross. By loving one another this way, they make visible the life of the One who is departing yet remains their Lord. The command captures the heart of Christian community.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; even as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
KJV
King James Version · 1611A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; even as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949I give you a new law: Have love one for another; even as I have had love for you, so are you to have love one for another.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`A new commandment I give to you, that ye love one another; according as I did love you, that ye also love one another;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752A new commandment I give unto you: That you love one another, as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890A new commandment I give to you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
Context
This command flows naturally from Jesus’ impending absence (verse 33) and prepares for the identifying mark in verse 35. It also echoes and deepens the example of humble service in verses 12–17. The disciples need this unifying center as they face confusion, persecution, and their own weaknesses. Peter’s focus will still be on Jesus’ destination (verse 36), showing how hard it is to release the question of where and embrace the call to love.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 John 3:14
We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not abideth in death.
- 1 Corinthians 12:26
And whether one member suffereth, all the members suffer with it; or one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
- Leviticus 19:34
The stranger that sojourneth with you shall be unto you as the home-born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were sojourners in the land of Egypt: I am Jehovah your God.
- Galatians 5:6
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith working through love.
- 2 Thessalonians 1:3
We are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren, even as it is meet, for that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the love of each one of you all toward one another aboundeth;
- Romans 12:10
In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another;
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