Jars of Clay - They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love Lyrics

They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

**They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love** by Jars of Clay is a powerful rendition of a hymn that has been sung in Christian communities for decades. Originally penned by Peter Scholtes in the late 1960s, it was beautifully revisited by Jars of Clay, who brought it into the contemporary Christian music scene. The song is a call to unity and love among Christians, emphasizing that it is through our love for one another that the world will recognize us as followers of Christ.

### Meaning of the Song

At its core, the song underscores the importance of love and unity within the Christian community. It serves as a reminder that Christian faith is not just about individual salvation or personal righteousness but about forming a loving community that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ. The song calls for Christians to work together, support each other, and show the world the love of Christ through their actions.

### Lyrics Breakdown and Analysis

- **"We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord"**: This opening line sets the theme of unity among believers. It echoes the biblical teaching that in Christ, there is no division – all are one in Him (Galatians 3:28).

- **"And we pray that our unity may one day be restored"**: This acknowledges that the Christian community often falls short of the ideal of unity. It's a prayerful hope for reconciliation and healing within the Body of Christ.

- **"And they'll know we are Christians by our love"**: This refrain is the song's cornerstone, drawing from John 13:35, where Jesus tells His disciples, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." The song suggests that the true mark of being a Christian is not merely in professing faith, but in demonstrating love.

- **"We will work with each other, we will work side by side"** and **"And we'll guard each man's dignity and save each man's pride"**: These lines call for collaborative effort among Christians to uphold the dignity and worth of every individual. It reflects the biblical injunction to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2) and to treat others with respect and love.

### Bible Verses References

The song is deeply rooted in biblical teachings. Besides the already mentioned verses, it resonates with:

- **1 Corinthians 12:12-27**: This passage talks about the body of Christ and how each member is interdependent, emphasizing unity in diversity.
- **Ephesians 4:2-3**: It urges believers to "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
- **1 John 4:7-12**: These verses highlight that love comes from God and that loving one another is a testament to God's presence in our lives.

In conclusion, **They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love** by Jars of Clay is a timeless reminder of the Christian calling to love and unity. Its poignant message, supported by scriptural truths, challenges believers to reflect Christ's love in their interactions with each other and the world, proving their discipleship not just in word, but in deed and truth.