Golden Rule

Introduction

Matthew 7:12 NLT

“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.

This verse concludes and summarizes Jesus’s instructions for living as a disciple. There is another summary of the Law and Prophets in Mt 22.37-40

Life Application

Common thoughts nowadays are:

Treat others well so they will treat you well in return

Treat others the way they treat you

However, the command here is:

If I were in the circumstance my neighbor is in right now, what would I like my neighbor’s to do to me? What attitude would I like my neighbor’s to have towards me?

Regardless of how my neighbour actually behaves towards me

Not with the objective of gaining our neighbour's good will

It fosters inclusivity, no favoritism

Great opportunity to show our love in action

It will help us to become less proud and less critical

Conclusion

When in doubt what should be our attitude toward others this is a fast rule we can apply

Love is what the law and the prophets are all about.

try to forgive as you would wish to be forgiven,

try to understand as you would wish to be understood

Let’s follow, disciple and share