The Law in a New LightSample

Jesus Sums up the Law

Where do we start? Loving a neighbour may have its challenges – think of those close to you – but loving an enemy is as big an ethical shift as has ever been suggested by anyone. It appears impossible until we begin to realise that the love Jesus refers to is not one of mere reciprocation or emotional response. It is an action that favours the well-being of another, feelings not accounted for. Aside from that, he modeled this love in non-retaliatory actions, expressions of mercy and healing, and finally in forgiving those who crucified him. His love was not passive, although it can be argued he was a pacifist. He will rule and reign one day in judgment but that is not our prerogative. He is Lord, and we are disciples of his example, a crucified lifestyle.

Exclusivity, exclusion, and vengeance are not kingdom values. They don’t reflect our heavenly father. They may be national values, but the kingdom Jesus is Lord over isn’t bound by, limited to, or defined by national borders. Jesus points out that God’s goodness is non-discriminatory as he causes the sun to shine and rain to fall on all – the just and the unjust. God’s benevolence isn’t exclusive. All benefit from it.

Loving those that love us, or those we are in connection/community with is no better than honour shown among thieves or love amongst tax collectors (the corrupt). For us to live differently, showing love, where we can, for those we wouldn’t normally love is to be a partaker of perfection.

This is maturity - this is fulfilling the law - this is reframing the law as revealed by Jesus – he who fulfilled the law in his life, death, and resurrection.