What does the Bible say about love in the church?

In John 13:34, Jesus instructs His disciples to love one another as He has loved them. This command highlights the radical nature of Christian love, which goes beyond mere affection to embody sacrificial, self-giving care for one another. The Apostle Paul reiterates this in 1 Corinthians 13, focusing on love as the most excellent gift—more important than any spiritual gift or ability. Love is the distinguishing mark of true discipleship, showing that we are followers of Christ when we love one another, as indicated in John 13:35.