Text: Matthew 7:12 (CSB) – Therefore, whatever you want others to do for you, do also the same for them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”
We are continuing our study of the Sermon on the Mount in the Book of Matthew. Now we are looking at the topic of the Kingdom and Jesus’ Exhortations. An exhortation is an utterance, discourse, or address conveying urgent advice or recommendation. It is a speech or written passage intended to persuade, inspire, or encourage.
Jesus is in this passage has given us 5 responsibilities that we have and is seeking to persuade and encourage us to live in this fashion. Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount continually brings us back to our motives over our actions. We must understand that in the Kingdom, God looks at the heart, not the outward designs. He looks at the motives more than the actions.,
So far we have focused on our responsibility to the SAVED, to OURSELVES, THE UNGODLY, and THE LORD. Today, let us finalize theses five responsibilities with our Responsibility to THE WORLD.
We are to treat others as we would want them to treat us. Growing up I learned what we call the Golden Rule. They actually taught us this in Elementary School, before the Bible was removed. Luke also records this – “Just as you want others to do for you, do the same for them.” (Luke 6:31 CSB).
I must admit, that growing up I did as many do – I misunderstood what Jesus was saying. The fleshly side of us read this and (maybe unconsciously) hear – “Do to others what you know they are going to do to me.” You know, the best defense is an offense.”
This is actually the opposite of what He said. We are to consider what we want others to do for us – and then DO IT TO THEM. First. Before they do. Some are quoted as saying - “Be the change you want to see in the world.” Do you want respect – give it first. Do you want love – give it first. Do you want praise – give it first. Do you want honor – give it first. Do you want to be served – serve first. Do you want to be cared for – care first. Do you want ---- I think you get the picture.
Why? Why would Jesus put this in here? Possibly because it goes against our normal nature. We want to mirror what others are doing. He calls us to be the light for others to see the way to live in the Kingdom. Therefore, because of these previous 4 responsibilities, He sums it up in the last one. Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount continually brings us back to our motives over our actions. The Bible calls us to be proactive – not reactive. Live as a citizen of the Kingdom before others. No matter what they do. No matter how they react. And, your reward will be from the King Himself.
Remember that God looks at the heart, not the outward designs.
Who we are is more important than what we do in the Kingdom of God.
Today, start walking as responsible citizens in the Kingdom of Jesus – the Kingdom of God here on Earth. You can do it. You must do it. For if you do not do it, who will?
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