How does the Bible teach the idea of loving your neighbor?

When Jesus preaches to the disciples, he tells them that he is giving them a new commandment: Love one another as I have loved you. This golden rule is somewhat different from the original Ten Commandments and is more characteristic of the lifestyle that Jesus was encouraging the people around him to live.

Love Your Neighbor As Yourself-- The Bible instructs us at least 8 times to love our neighbors. It is one of the Bible's most repeated commands, and it is relevant and to be obeyed regardless of whether or not your neighbor reciprocates. Neighbors include everyone, not just our friends, classmates, or acquaintances. We are to act as the good samaritan in the Gospel of Luke. Our actions in everyday life reflect God's love; they are a testimony to unbelievers. Everyone around us should see the light of God shine within us.

I Peter tells us that non-believers can be won over merely by watching our conduct. "Your conduct among the heathen should be so good that . . . they will have to recognize your good deeds and so praise God . . . ." (I Peter 2:12)

"We know that we have left death and come over into life; we know it because we love others. Those who do not love are still under the power of death."