THE WORD: The Golden Rule

“The Good Samaritan” painting by Rembrandt, The Wallace Collection, London (c. 1633) (Public Domain)

The notion of treating others as you want to be treated has been a hallmark of civilized societies since ancient times. In the Bible, the faithful were told to “love thy neighbour as thyself” in Leviticus. Jesus referenced the Golden Rule in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 7 and he provides a living example in the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke. In Luke 10, Jesus makes clear that “your neighbour” is anyone in need and that commandment extends even to those who might be hostile.

Matthew 7:12
12 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.