A JESUS KIND OF LOVE

“How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.” This verse underscores the importance of God’s Word in guiding us toward purity.” – Psalm 119:9.    Ezekiel 36:25–27

Over twenty-four times in the gospels, Jesus said, “follow me.” When Jesus says “Follow me,” it’s far more than a simple invitation to walk behind Him. And it’s more than Bible study. It requires transformation: aligning our lives with His teachings and example, and embracing His values as our own. It signifies a willingness to leave behind old ways and habits and be entirely shaped by another’s example. We should strive to do what Jesus does well. At the top of that list is a Jesus kind of love.

Jesus loved unconditionally. Jesus was frequently associated with and cared for marginalized individuals, including the poor, sick, lepers, women, and those considered outcasts by the religious leaders of His time. He demonstrated compassion and offered healing and fellowship to those often rejected and overlooked by society. Jesus loved every one of His followers, pouring into them day and night despite their flaws.  And He loved sacrificially. Love is a choice. God chose to become a man and, as a man, He chose to hang on a cross so that we could be saved. So it makes sense that as apprentices of Jesus we should be known for our love, as He was known for love.

The teaching of Jesus is so clear, you almost wonder why we don’t follow it. Imagine a world in which people loved like Jesus loved. Imagine if Pharaoh had walked a path of love, loving the Hebrew people instead of making them slaves. Imagine how the exodus story may have turned out differently. Imagine if the people of God in the Old Testament had walked the path of love, loving God and each other. Imagine if the religious leaders who sought to destroy Jesus had walked in the path of love and loved Him rather than hated Him. Now imagine if Jesus had practiced hatred instead of love. Imagine if Jesus had lashed out in vengeance rather than reaching out in love at the cross.

Imagine, in 2025, if all Christians in the world had the character of Jesus. Imagine if we were imitators of Jesus, so that through our lives, actions, and relationships, others would see Jesus in us. Imagine how things could be different now if we all walked as Jesus walked, in the way of love with everyone.

The world desperately needs that kind of love. Love is more than something you feel; you choose by keeping your eyes and heart focused on Jesus’ example. God’s Love is for everyone. Does that mean your combative neighbor? Yes. Your estranged sibling? Yep. Your micro-managing boss? Yes, it includes them, too.  Everyone we encounter is someone that God loves and Jesus died for.

Discussion Questions:

1. What does “loving like Jesus” mean to you personally? 
2. How does Jesus’ love differ from other forms of love? 
3. How can we ensure that our actions and words reflect the love of Jesus?