The True First Commandment of Jesus Christ and Its Deep Meaning
Often, discussions about commandments and their importance revolve around the Ten Commandments given to Moses. However, Jesus Christ, as the founder of Christianity, delivered a different commandment that is often overlooked. This article delves into the significance of the commandment given by Jesus Christ, drawing from biblical sources like the New International Version (NIV) and the English Standard Version (ESV).
Jesus' New Commandment
Jesus Christ issued a new and profound commandment that focuses on a type of love that goes beyond the typical human understanding. According to the New International Version of the Bible:
John 13:34-35 (NIV)
34 A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
The key phrase here is “love one another as I have loved you,” which points to a form of love that is truly divine. This type of love is called agape love, a Greek term signifying a sacrificial and unconditional love, often seen as a deeper expression of God’s love.
The Driving Force Behind Agape Love
Agape love is not just a human emotion; it is rooted in the divine love of God. In John 13:34-35, Jesus suggests that the command to love one another is a reflection of His own divine nature and love. This intimate and profound teaching underscores the centrality of love in the Christian faith, indicating that it is more than just a moral or social duty but a divine mandate.
The First Commandment in the Bible
The Ten Commandments, as recorded in the Old Testament, were given to Moses. One might wonder if the question refers to the first commandment in this context. However, the title of this article focuses on the commandment given by Jesus Christ, which is indeed the true first commandment for Christians. Nevertheless, it is important to understand the significance of the commandment given to Moses:
Exodus 20:2-3 (ESV)
2 “You shall have no other gods before me. 3 You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.
This commandment is undoubtedly a primary directive and is often considered the root of all other commandments. If one were to violate this commandment, it would fundamentally undermine the worship and relationship with God.
Interplay Between God's and Jesus' Commandments
While the first commandment listed by Moses sets the foundation, Jesus’ commandment adds a new dimension to the concept of love. This interplay highlights the continuity and depth of God's will throughout history. The four commandments for God and the six for man create a balanced framework that guides believers. The entire Ten Commandments can be summarized as:
Four Commandments for God: Worship and respect Him. Six Commandments for Man: Promote order, justice, and integrity in human interaction.These commandments indeed form a comprehensive guide, mirroring the overarching principles of Christian living. Yet, the essence of all these commandments lies in the love that Jesus commanded us to exhibit.
Ultimately, the true first commandment of Jesus Christ, the command to love one another as He has loved us, stands as a profound and universal directive, guiding believers towards a more meaningful and loving existence.
Key Points:
The New Commandment: Love one another as Jesus has loved us. Agape Love: A sacrificial and unconditional form of love. Primary Directive: The first commandment given to Moses, “You shall have no other gods before me.”By focusing on this commandment and its deeper meaning, Christians can better understand the core of their faith and fulfill their purpose in a world that often seeks to define love in limited terms.