Matt. 7:1-5; 12
The Golden Rule is otherwise called the rule of reciprocity and it was taught by Jesus in verse 12.
“Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets”.
In verse 1 of the chapter under consideration, Jesus had said “ … and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you” We are restrained from being judgmental in handling disputes or controversies.
God wants you to put yourself in the other party’s shoes when you are attempting to apportion blame.
On the issues leading to dispute or controversy, how would you want to be treated?
How you want to be treated is how you should treat your neighbour.
This is the Golden Rule. When you defile another man’s daughter, would you want your own daughter to be so defiled?
When you borrow money from someone else or from a financial institution or from a co-operative and you refuse or ignore to pay back,
would you want to be so owed and not be paid what is owed you? When you commit adultery with another person’s spouse,
would you want your own spouse to be violated and your marriage endangered?
When you steal another person’s property, would you want your own property stolen?
Therefore love your neighbour as yourself and treat him/her how you want to be treated.
This done, you will have no reason to engage in litigation.
Point of Emphasis: Treat others the way You want to be treated.
Prayer Point: Lord, give me the grace to love others as you have loved me.
MEMORY VERSE
Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets (Matt. 7:12) NKJV
