New Testament
John 15:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the ultimate expression of love, which is the willingness to sacrifice oneself for others.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
"No one has greater love than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the ultimate expression of love, which is the willingness to sacrifice oneself for others. He highlights that true friendship involves deep commitment and selflessness. By laying down one's life, a person demonstrates the highest form of love, showing that they value their friends' well-being above their own. This teaching reflects the core of Jesus' mission, as He would later exemplify this love through His own sacrifice on the cross. The verse encourages believers to consider the depth of their relationships and challenges them to act selflessly for the sake of others, embodying the love that Jesus modeled. It serves as a reminder that love is not just a feeling but an action that often requires personal sacrifice. This principle can transform how we interact with friends and even strangers, urging us to prioritize love and service in our daily lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 15:13 to your life
To live out this teaching, consider ways you can show love through sacrifice in your relationships. This might mean putting a friend's needs before your own, offering support during tough times, or being willing to forgive. Small acts of kindness can reflect this greater love.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary · John 15:13 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 15:13 mean?
John 15:13 expresses the idea that the greatest form of love is to sacrifice oneself for others. Jesus teaches that true friendship involves selflessness and prioritizing the well-being of friends.
What is the meaning of sacrifice in John 15:13?
In John 15:13, sacrifice refers to the willingness to give up one's own life or comfort for the sake of others. It highlights the depth of love that goes beyond mere words to actions that benefit friends.
How can I apply John 15:13 in my life?
You can apply John 15:13 by looking for opportunities to put your friends' needs before your own. This could involve offering support, being forgiving, or making sacrifices that show you care.
What does Jesus teach about friendship in John 15:13?
In John 15:13, Jesus teaches that true friendship is marked by selfless love and sacrifice. He encourages believers to embody this love by prioritizing their friends' well-being.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
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