1:!9 – The Law of the Prophets

#faithbites #faithjourney prophets

Intro

Some think that Christianity is complicated with many rules and obligations. Others think the way a specific church does it is right and others are wrong. What if I told you there was one verse that sums up what all of the prophets have told us and how Jesus told us to live? Would you be surprised? Are you worrying that you were missing something? God sent Jesus to forgive us and make it simple.

Questions

• How do you sum up God’s word?
• What does Jesus command you to do?

Scripture

• Matthew 7:12 – In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the prophets.
• Matthew 4:4 – But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Reflection

If we believe that God’s word is true, then what it has to say must be true. In Mathew 4:4, we see that we live by the word that comes from God. Then in Matthew 7:12, we see the golden rule. Treat others as you wish to be treated. It’s that simple. No elaborate rituals or works. No special handshake or number of things to do. Just be a good human and treat others with love, dignity, and respect as you would want to. It truly is that simple.

As we close, remember that when we read the whole story of the Bible we gain nuances into who God is. When we are looking for a summary, we don’t have to look any further than John 3:16 for what God did for us and Matthew 7:12 on how we need to act towards each other.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for sending your Son to forgive us and reconcile us to you. Lord Jesus, thank you for summarizing the law and the words of the Prophets so succinctly. You are not a demanding God. You make it easy for us to follow your word. We pray tonight that you heal those who are sick and help us to follow your law. In your name, we pray, amen.