What does the Bible say about love of neighbor?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that believers are to love their neighbors sincerely, seeking their good as an expression of love for God and gratitude for His grace. Leviticus 19:18 commands, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” grounding love in God’s holy character rather than mere sentiment. Jesus calls this the second great commandment in Matthew 22:39 and Mark 12:31, inseparably joining it to wholehearted love for God. In John 13:34, Christ gives His disciples a new commandment to love one another as He has loved them. Such love is shown in mercy, truth, forgiveness, justice, and sacrificial service, relying on the Holy Spirit rather than human strength.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Leviticus 19:18
You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people; but you shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am Yahweh.
- John 13:34
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another.
- Matthew 22:39
A second likewise is this, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'
- Mark 12:31
The second is like this, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."
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