Why is love a command in Christianity?

The command to love one another, as articulated by Jesus in John 13:34, serves not only as a guiding principle for interpersonal relationships among believers but also expresses our obedience to God. This command reflects the transformative work that Christ accomplishes in our hearts when we come to faith in Him. The New Testament consistently underscores love as the essence of the Christian life, with passages like 1 Corinthians 13 highlighting its supremacy over all spiritual gifts. The expectation to love is inherently tied to our identity as followers of Christ, emphasizing that true love stems from understanding and experiencing God's love for us. Therefore, in commanding us to love, God is calling us to reflect His nature, fostering unity and building a community that genuinely displays His glory.