It is a priority in Christianity that we follow the “Golden Rule.” In Matthew 7:12, Jesus says, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” If we want to be treated a certain way, then we must treat others that way. We must follow the “Golden Rule” in all of our dealings, and oh, what a wonderful world this would be if all heeded this command!
For example, Matthew 6:14-15 says, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” If we want God to forgive us, we must forgive others. This is crucial!
What about as it relates to helping someone financially or with some type of gift? Jesus says in Matthew 5:40-42, “And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.” This means that we must go the extra mile to help someone truly in need. It is no wonder that Galatians 6:10 says, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” This means that we must do good unto all. This should guide us in everything we do. We are to especially place our focus upon helping Christians.
Now are there any stipulations upon our giving or helping? Of course, there are! II Thessalonians 3:10 says, “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” As it relates to the church enrolling widows to receive support from the church as they did works for the church, we are told in I Timothy 5:3-6 to, “Honour widows that are widows indeed. But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.” Verses 9 and 10 say, “Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.” We see that only widows in deed were to be enrolled in receiving the regular support of the church.
Let us live each day putting God First (Matthew 6:33). Now, if we love Him, we will keep His commandments (John 14:15). Let us then do unto others as we would have them do unto us, and thereby, follow the “Golden Rule!”
-Jason Gann, TBC Registrar