(Matthew Chapter 7, Verse 12)
In this one verse (vs. 12) the Lord has shown us a summary of what was contained in the Old Covenant law and the words of the prophets. “Whatever you would wish that men would do to you, do so to them.” This one verse provides both an insight into what the Lord is seeking from us as well as a maxim to live by.
There are several focal points of Christianity and this scripture provides one of those points. The first point is about worshiping the Lord Jesus Christ and creating a relationship with God through him. The second point is about our relationship with our fellow man and learning how to live in harmony with one another. What we see in this scripture is the key to this second focal point of the teachings of Christ. How to live in relationship with other men.
Consider for a moment the Old Covenant law. There are in excess of six hundred laws that were given to the children of Israel by which they were to live. When you distil the essence of these laws we find that at the bottom of them is this precept spoken of by Jesus, which is to do unto others as you would have them do to you. In the Ten Commandments for example we see that they speak entirely about relationships. First about our relationship to God and then about our relationship with our fellow man. The third level of relationship contained in the old law was about our relationship with ourself. As an example there were laws and precepts about what to eat and wear, and the wisdom contained in these laws would keep us healthy and free from sickness if we followed those laws.
So the entire scope of the teachings of the law and prophets comes down to relationships and that is in essence what Jesus was telling us in this single verse. We need to learn how to get along with each other. When you consider the ultimate reward for following Christ this becomes apparent. After all things have been concluded and all sin is washed away, the Lord will rule his people into eternity. In that time he wants his people to be able to get along with each other. He does not want people to argue, back-bite and fight with each other as that would certainly not be a pleasant place to live. Instead he wants his people to be at peace and in harmony with each other and this is what this verse is telling us. How do you want to be treated by other people? Then do the same to them. If you do not like to be spoken against and upset and stressed and so on, then don’t do these things to others.
Easy to say, but not always easy to do. Fortunately the Lord has provided us with teachings and processes through the Holy Spirit to enable us to learn how to live this way. When we learn to walk in the spirit we can truly find the way to live in peace and harmony and truly fulfil the truth of this scripture.
Hi! I’m John, the owner, author, and editor of this site. Over the past 50+ years as a Christian I have been teaching, preaching and writing about the Bible to help Christians gain a deeper insight into the scriptures that are easily understood. I also answer specific Bible related questions, so feel free to contact me.
