Treatment of Others

How we treat people shows the degree of our respect for those made in God’s image. If we value them as God does, we are told to “Do to them as we would like them to do to us” (Lk 6:31). Often referred to as the golden rule, it is putting yourself in their place. Even

We have 'neighbours' all around

though the act of goodwill shown by the Good Samaritan to another person in need was of considerable personal inconvenience and expense Jesus said, “Go and do likewise” to those in need (Lk 10:37). In this parable we don't know if the injured man was a Jew. If he was, this would underscore the command "Love your neighbour as yourself" as the Jews and Samaritan's were from racially antagonistic backgrounds (Lk 10:27).

The Bible instructs we are not just to do good to those who we like and treat us well but also to extend the same kindness and generosity to our enemies (Prov 25:21,22; Rom 12:9-21). The teaching says we overcome evil with good, not letting evil conquer us but conquer evil by doing good. We are to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Mt 5:43-48). By loving them and treating them with kindness and compassion, it has the potential of leading them to remorse, repentance, and salvation in Jesus Christ.

The Bible says, whatever we do, it should be done as unto the Lord, understanding we will be judged and rewarded for what we have done (Rom 2:6, 14:12; 1 Cor 10:31; Eph 6:7,8; Rev 20:12,13).

As His representatives, even giving a cup of cold water to a thirsty person will have its reward with Jesus saying, by responding to (or refusing to be involved in) the physical needs of those in ‘our world’, we are in effect treating Him this way (Mt 10:42, 25:31-46).

It is the nature of God to bless people – as His children we should exhibit the same characteristics. Our love for God is visibly demonstrated in our “Loving others as much as ourselves” (Mk 12:31). The instruction of Jesus is to minister to those who are unable to repay the favours we do (Lk 14:12-14).

Do I minister to the needs of others with Godly compassion? Real Christianity is practical, it is love in action, not just words or theory (Jas 2:14-26). Paul said, he became all things to all

Always try to be kind – 1 Thessalonians 5:15

people so he might win them to Christ (1 Cor 9:22) Our treatment of others is not to be dependent on their standing in society, or the prestige we will gain (Mt 6:1-4; Jas1:27-2:8). We should not embarrass or be inconsiderate to others regardless of the treatment we have received, instead responding in love and blessing, so we can inherit a blessing (1 Pet 3:9).

As opportunities present themselves, “Do good to all people” (Gal 6:10). At all times we are to do the most long-term loving thing; this includes correction besides compassion. “Being punished is not enjoyable while it is happening, yet afterwards we can see the good fruit produced by it” (Heb 12:7-13).

In this world, there is growing ill will and even hatred (anti-Semitism) against the Jews. Christians should be standing up for this race, through whom our Saviour came, along with a rich Christian heritage.