How to Deal

Through the centuries men have displayed many different symbols to show that they are Christians.  They have worn marks in the lapels of their coats, hung chains about their necks, even had special haircuts.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with any of this if one feels it is his calling.  But there is a much better sign – a mark that has not been thought up just as a matter of expediency for use on some special occasion or in some specific era.  It is a universal mark that is to last through all the ages of the church till Jesus comes back. 

What is this mark?

At the close of his ministry, Jesus looks forward to his death on the cross, the open tomb and the ascension.  Knowing that he is about to leave, Jesus prepares his disciples for what is to come.  It is here that he makes clear what will be the distinguishing mark of the Christian:

Little children, yet a little while I am with you.  Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you.. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.  By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. ( John 13:33-35)