A New Commandment

This hymn is a folk-style worship chorus about Jesus' commandment to love, based closely on John 13:34-35.

For many years, the author and composer have been listed as "unknown". However recent information is that it was written in the early 1970s at Bryn Goleu Fellowship, Llanfairfechan in North Wales by member and pianist, Roy Crabtree (b approx 1930).

The earliest published version located so far is Songs of Praise, from Scripture in Song Recordings Ltd, published in 1973.

Recent versions of Hymns Old and New include two additional verses by Indian Roman Catholic priest, musician, liturgist and composer Aniceto Nazareth (1938-2021).

With irregular meter, the tune does not have a name.

There are some variations in the words and tune in use throughout the world. The original lyrics included "by this shall all men know that you are my disciples". The word "men" is now usually omitted and the tune adjusted to fit. Some people change the whole phrase to "by this the world shall know".

There are several other hymns with very similar titles, but this one is widely used in liturgical churches, across various denominations.

Downloads

Lead sheet (melody + guitar chords)

ABC notation

PowerPoint slides

Examples

Singer with piano:

Church choir with electronic keyboard:

Singer, self-accompanied on guitar:

Instrumental - piano, with lyrics on-screen:

Lyrics

A new commandment, I give unto you
That you love one another, as I have loved you.
That you love one another, as I have loved you.

By this, shall all know that you are my disciples,
If you have love one for another.
By this, shall all know you are my disciples,
If you have love one for another.

A new commandment, I give unto you
That you love one another, as I have loved you.

Additional verses

2 You are my friends if you do what I command you ...

3 I am the true vine, my Father is the gard'ner ...

4 True love is patient, not arrogant and boastful ...