The " How To " Love Biblically.

Had a nice time in services today. With an excellent bible discussion on The Ten Commandments, and what it means to love your neighbors.

Our study and early morning sermon focused on three passages, Leviticus 19:1-2,9-18, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11,16-23, Matthew 5:38-48.

First we considered the Commandments and their intent. Then we tried to peer into what God was trying to accomplish through these basic precepts. Then we discussed application in light of the commandment of Loving God and our Neighbor with our whole heart, soul and being, as we reflected upon Matthew's passage.

Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” ( Mt. 5:38-48 )

From the Bedouin attitude of caring for your neighbor, to the sacrificial nature of love being exemplified in both of these passages. We considered the " how we " live out our lives and how that " how to " being so important considering the Epistles reading and the statement made "Each builder must choose with care " how to " build on it. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ. " Utilizing the " How To " in reflection of the OT and NT scriptures I believe made all the difference in the world.
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It was a profoundly engaging and revealing study of the Word. Lots of fun.