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The Golden Rule: A Compendium on Christian Ethics

Explore the powerful concept of the Golden Rule as presented in the Gospels, echoing teachings of Hillel and Confucius. Understand its significance, application in daily life, and impact on relationships with neighbors, family, brethren, the lost, and even enemies. Discover how this ethical foundation is based on love, reason, fulfillment of the law, and the teachings of Christianity, emphasizing the importance of treating others as we wish to be treated. Learn how to embody this rule by becoming disciples of Christ and embracing a life of compassion, grace, and transformation.

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The Golden Rule: A Compendium on Christian Ethics

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  1. The Golden Rule

  2. Introduction • The golden rule is twice set forth in the gospels (Matt. 7:12; Luke 6:27-31). • In some respects the concept was not unknown before Christ. • “That which is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow.” (Hillel) • “Never impose on others what you would not choose for yourself.” (Confucius) • Yet, these negative formulations cannot rival the positive statement of Jesus.

  3. Contrast • One could heed the counsel of Hillel or Confucius by avoiding hurtful and harmful actions. One could satisfy the negative formulation by simply doing nothing. • The golden rule places a great responsibility upon Christians. We must actively do to others what we would have them do to us.

  4. Characteristics of the Golden Rule • It is a Fulfillment of the Law (Matt. 22:37-40; Rom. 13:8-10; Gal. 5:13-15) • It is Based on Love (1 Cor. 13:1-7; 1 John 3:16-18; 2 Tim. 2:22) • It is Reasonable and Clear (Matt. 13:9-16; Acts 28:23-28; Rev. 2:7)

  5. Application of the Golden Rule • Our Neighbors (Exod. 20:12-17; Luke 10:29-37; Gal. 6:10) • Our Brethren (Eph. 4:1-3, 29-32; Col. 3:12-14) • Our Family (Eph. 5:25-33; 6:1-4; Col. 3:18-21) • The Lost (Gal. 6:1-2; 2 Tim. 2:1-2; James 5:19-20) • Our Enemies (Matt. 5:43-48; Rom. 12:18-21)

  6. Conclusion • Christianity is a religion of life. We must treat all men as we would like to be treated. • However, full application of the golden rule is hopelessly beyond our reach until we become disciples of Christ. • To fully obey this command, we must be born again (Gal. 2:20; Rom. 12:1-2; 1 Pet. 1:22-25).

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