He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ”
Matthew 19:18-19
One day a rich young man asked Jesus what good thing he must do to obtain eternal life. Jesus responded by listing several commandments, including those related to relationships with others (such as not murdering, committing adultery, stealing, bearing false witness, and honoring parents) and one that includes love for both God and neighbor (loving one’s neighbor as oneself).
Jesus affirms the importance of following the commandments related to interpersonal relationships, emphasizing the need for love, honesty, and respect in our interactions with others.
Firstly, Jesus underscores the sanctity of human life and the value of preserving it by commanding against murder. He emphasizes the sacredness of the marital bond by prohibiting adultery and emphasizes honesty and integrity through the prohibitions against stealing and bearing false witness.
Furthermore, Jesus highlights the significance of honoring one’s parents, recognizing the role of family relationships in shaping our lives and society. But perhaps most importantly, Jesus concludes His response by pointing to the overarching principle of love: loving one’s neighbor as oneself.
Loving one’s neighbor as oneself goes beyond mere adherence to a set of rules; it requires genuine care, compassion, and empathy for others. It calls us to treat others with the same kindness, grace, and respect that we desire for ourselves.
Today, let us commit ourselves to loving God and loving others, knowing that in doing so, we fulfill the greatest commandments of all.
Pray
Lord, thank You for the guidance You provide through Your Word. Help me to be characterized by love, honesty, and respect for others. Enable me to honor You by loving my neighbors as myself, reflecting Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
