Often Overlooked Factors embedded in 'The Golden Rule'

by Joel Hendon⁽¹⁷⁰⁾ Red Star

http://hebronics.org/index.html

Most folks understand the “Golden Rule” to be that of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” That isn’t how it is worded in the bible, yet it carries the same sentiments. The scriptural one is found in Matthew 7:12 and reads thusly in the King James Version: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

There are other scriptures that place emphasis on that very thought. There are nineteen verses of scripture, which in one form or another, tells us to ‘love one another’. And in the book of Romans we find this phrase: Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; (Romans 12:10)

Those scriptures show us what is expected of a true Christian. There are some implications that are difficult to grasp, and are not intended to place an impossible task upon a man. Many, perhaps most, of those scriptures of loving one another and preferring one another were directed to the apostles and other disciples of Christ. And, are primarily intended to mean Christian towards another Christian, although not always. For instance the Golden Rule itself, would apply to any and all mankind.

One lawyer asked Jesus a question and his answer is of much importance to a Christian:

Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (Matthew 22:36-39 KJV)

Once again, this kindly throws some off and they question how one can love God so much, even to the extent of that above one’s immediate family. God knows, as do all others, that no one has the passionate feelings towards God as toward one’s mate, nor the intimate love for our children, etc. The love towards God and brethren in Christ, is that of awe of the power of God and admiration of his care for us. The lesson in mind is that this admiration and respect must be so strong that even our love for family must never cause us to forsake or duty to him. If our family should strive to keep us from continuing to follow Christ, we must reject their efforts. That does not mean we stop loving them, but the service to God must supercede all else.

In Matthew 5:40, we find a statement which is quite difficult to fit our pre-set principles and ideas. And there are more scriptures which give the same thought.

And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. (Matthew 5:40 KJV)

Luke adds to that thought in a similar quote: To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also. (Luke 6:29 KJV)

All of these scriptures and many more, set forth principles that a Christian must try and develop the ability to comprehend and follow. The teachings of Christ were non-violent and if one of his followers is such, he has much work to do. Christians must strive to be exemplary people, simply because we are representatives of Jesus Christ and our every activity should be directed at giving God and Jesus the glory. They are glorified by our obedience.

True, the rigid life of Christianity is not always easy. It is not supposed to be. But God has given us the opportunity to live eternally in heaven with him, has made the way achievable even though strait. Jesus died to erase our previous sins and has provided us with God’s grace, in the event we fail, so long as our best efforts are extended.

Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. (Romans 4:6-8)

Now don’t take that verse to mean one does not have to obey God to the very best of his ability. It doesn’t say that or mean that. It simply means that as long as one is walking in the light every day, the best he can, his failures will not be imputed to him.

Article submitted Tuesday, April 19, 2011 & read 488 times.

Please log in to leave your comments.

» left by Marijo Phelps (1 year 31 days ago.)

AMEN! Good article Joel - keep writing and we will learn and grow with you!

» left by Joel Hendon (1 year 28 days ago.)

Gracias Marijo, for the comment.

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