
Over the centuries, there have been numerous ways that so-called "true believers" of Jesus have identified themselves. Creeds and statements of "I believe" as well as tie pins, necklaces, and bumper stickers are like secret handshakes between fellow members. But what is the real way to identify a disciple of Messiah?
Of course, any child of the 1970s "Jesus Movement" can tell you, "They will know we are Christians by our love, by our love." The popular camp song is derived from Yeshua's statement about His followers:
By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
John 13:35
It sounds perfect, but out of context it is without meaning or substance. Beloved, we do not know what love is, without knowing how the Almighty defines it. And He has defined it - again and again, and yet men are loathe to obey Him.
And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves G-d must love his brother also.
1John 4:21
You can never separate love from the commandments of the Almighty. Love and the revelation of G-d's righteousness (the Torah) are inseparable. Love of G-d, and love of each other are defined in the Torah. Cast it aside, and you will only think you love G-d and your brother.
By this we know that we love the children of G-d, when we love G-d and keep His commandments. For this is the love of G-d, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.
1John 5:2-3
The disciples of Messiah are marked by our love for one another. Our love for one another is defined by the Torah. Without the Torah, "love" has no biblical definition.
We are a part of an eternal lamp. We ourselves are wicks that fuel the flame, revealing the Shekinah to the world around us. What is the oil that keeps our wick lit, what is our "love"? It is Torah deeds, beloved.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16