What “the 11th commandment” refers to
In Christian settings, “the eleventh commandment” often refers to Jesus’ words in John 13:34, which the KJV renders, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” The next verse adds that by this love others will know the disciples are his.
It is a popular label, not a formal title in Scripture. The Bible itself does not number it as an eleventh item added to the Ten Commandments of Exodus 20, and Christians vary in how they describe the relationship. Some find the phrase helpful; others prefer to speak simply of “the new commandment” or “the love command.”
Note that the same phrase is used in unrelated ways in everyday speech, such as in proverbs or jokes about an unwritten rule. This study is about John 13.
The setting: John 13
The command appears at the beginning of what is often called the Upper Room Discourse. In the hours before his arrest, Jesus:
- Washes his disciples’ feet (John 13:1-17), taking the role of a servant.
- Speaks about betrayal (13:18-30).
- After Judas leaves, gives the new commandment (13:34-35).
- Tells Peter that he will deny him (13:36-38).
The context matters. The command comes right after an act of humble service, and right before Jesus’ death. It is not an abstract rule; it is explained by what he has just done and is about to do.
What is new about it?
Loving neighbors was not new. Leviticus 19:18 says, “thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (KJV), and Jesus affirmed love for God and neighbor as the greatest commandments in Mark 12:28-31. Writers offer several suggestions for what is new in John 13:
- The standard: “as I have loved you.” The measure is Jesus’ own self-giving love, not only self-love.
- The community: the focus is on love among his disciples (“one another”).
- The covenant: it is given in the context of the new covenant at the Last Supper.
Interpreters emphasize these in different proportions, and you can invite your group to weigh them.
What the love looks like
Looking at the surrounding passages, Jesus’ love (explored further in Bible verses on Jesus’ love) is shown through:
- Service: washing feet (John 13:14-15).
- Sacrifice: John 15:12-13 repeats the command and speaks of laying down one’s life for friends.
- Truth and patience: he loves the disciples even when they misunderstand and fail.
The letters of John return to the theme. 1 John 3:16-18 connects love with practical help, and 1 John 4:7-12 roots love in God.
Why it is called a mark of discipleship
John 13:35 says that by this love people will know the disciples belong to Jesus. Leaders often note that this places the credibility of a Christian community in how its members treat one another. It does not say that love replaces other commands; many Christians see it as summing up and fulfilling them (compare Romans 13:8-10).
A group study plan
Session one: John 13:1-17
Read the foot washing. Ask what stands out about Jesus’ actions given who he is.
Session two: John 13:31-38
Read the command in its immediate context. Discuss the phrase “as I have loved you.”
Session three: related passages
Read Mark 12:28-31, John 15:9-17, and 1 John 4:7-12. Compare.
Session four: practice
Plan a concrete act of service for the group or for someone in need. A shared meal can also be a natural setting; see fellowship meals in the Bible.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think Jesus washed feet before giving the command?
- What difference does it make that the standard is “as I have loved you”?
- Where do you find it hardest to love people in your church or group?
- What would it look like for our group to be known by love?
- How can we love one another and still speak honestly about disagreements?
Using this in a discipleship group
The command fits well with groups focused on growth together. See our guide to discipleship small group study for session structure and tips.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 11th commandment in the Bible?
The phrase is not in the Bible. It is a label for the new commandment Jesus gave in John 13:34.
Is the new commandment different from the Ten Commandments?
Christian traditions describe the relationship in different ways. Many see it as expressing and fulfilling the heart of the law, rather than adding a separate rule.
Does the command mean we must feel affection?
The passages emphasize action, service and sacrifice, not only feelings. Leaders often invite people to start with practical care.