Articles
The Golden Rule
At an early age, we all heard and learned about what is known as the golden rule. This rule tells us “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This comes from Matthew 7:12. This statement appears in the sermon on the mount where Jesus is teaching about how one must get themselves ready to be in his kingdom. In the beginning of chapter 7, Jesus tells us that we must not be hypocritical judges. He tells us that we must judge but judge with good and honest hearts. He reminds us that if we are seeking his kingdom that we can find it as the door is always open. At the conclusion of these statements about judging properly, he tells us to follow the golden rule.
This golden rule does not tell us “to do unto others as they do unto you or do unto others before they do unto you or do unto others when they do unto you or do unto some others as you would have them do unto you.” These types of rules are very narrow minded and could lead one to follow others’ sins and to make us partial to some.
The golden rule says:
- Do - It is active. You must have some actions.
- Who? Unto others - all you can help.
- You treat them as you would like to be treated.
Remember: This is not just a good philosophy or theory. It is a command that Chrisitans are to have toward all people.
When you apply this golden rule to everyday living, you will display the following actions: 1. You will treat your mate as you would like to be treated. Col. 3:18-19 2. You will treat your family members as you would like to be treated. 3. You will treat your employees/employers as you would like to be treated. Eph 6:5-9 4. You will treat your neighbors as you would like to be treated. Matt.5:43-44 5. You will treat your brethren as you would like to be treated. I John 3:16
The golden rule needs to be applied and shown in the local church, families, at jobs, at schools, and in the community. Following the golden rule may be one of the best tools a christian has to teach others about Christ. When we do unto others as we would have them do unto us, we are helping them, helping ourselves and most importantly glorifying God.
