See how they love one another

Love is the source of every duty we owe to God and to one another. It is the essence of all the commands given to God's people, the bond that holds Christian fellowship together, and the fulfilment of the law, as Scripture teaches in Romans 13. Love advances the honour of Jesus Christ and displays the true glory of the gospel.

The early Christians even had a saying, which they believed came from Christ Himself: "Never rejoice except when you see your brother walking in love."

Those outside the faith were known to remark about them, "See how they love one another," because they were willing even to lay down their lives for one another in obedience to Christ's royal command.

Love, then, is the source, the standard, the direction, and the fruit of true gospel fellowship.

Christian communion is not sustained by shared activity, right doctrine alone, or good structure — but by love. Love begins it, governs it, gives it purpose, and proves its authenticity.