The Golden Rule (Sun. A.M. — Sept. 6, 2020)

Introduction:

A. Matthew 7:12 – Can it be seen in you?

B. What a difference the Golden Rule can make in today’s world!

C. What makes this rule “golden”?

I. IT IS GOLDEN BECAUSE OF ITS SCOPE.

A. Many have sought and failed to capture its essence.

B. What distinguishes Christ’s statement from others?

1. Negative and passive (Mt. 26:52; 25:42-43; 5:46-47)

2. Positive and active (Rm. 5:8; 1 Jn. 4:19)

C. A closer look at its scope (Mt. 7:12)

II. IT IS GOLDEN BECAUSE ITS STANDARD.

A. “Just as” (Lk. 6:31)

1. Must be applied daily (Jn. 13:17; Jas. 4:17)

2. Example (1 Jn. 3:17-18).

B. Golden Rule as seen in its context

1. Hypocritical judgment (Mt. 7:1-5)

2. Benevolent Father (Mt. 7:7-11)

C. Price to be paid for practicing the Golden Rule (Mt. 5:13-16)

III. IT IS GOLDEN BECAUSE OF ITS SOURCE.

A. “For this is the Law and the Prophets” (Mt. 7:12 cf. Gal. 5:14; Jas. 2:8; Mt. 22:37-39)

B. The Golden Rule is a “second level” commandment never to be practiced in a way that dishonors God or makes Him subservient to our will (Mt. 22:37, 39).

C. Our love finds its source in God (1 Jn. 4:7-11).

Conclusion:

A. The Golden Rule is precious as gold because of its scope, its standard, and its source
(Mt. 7:12).

B. True value seen only in its application to everyday life.

C. It all begins at Calvary (Jn. 3:16).