Moral Principle the Golden Rule

Definition

Do unto others as you would have them do to you.

Explanation

In the classic (Greek) understanding of love, there are actually five types of love. The highest level of love in Greek culture was philios, brother love. Philios can be defined as “willing the good of the other.” When you love someone with brotherly love, you look out for their best interest. Christ taught us a higher level of love, which the Greeks called agapé. Agapé love means making yourself a complete gift of self to the person you love. Another way of looking at agapé is the willingness to sacrifice your own good to ensure the good of the other person.

The Golden Rule actually constitutes the bare minimum requirements of Christian love. Treating others as we would like to be treated is a simple guideline to help us begin to think of others. Philios and agapé both go beyond the Golden Rule.

The Golden Rule is a great measure of our walk with Christ. If we fail to treat others as we would want to be treated, we know that we are not oriented toward love. We need conversion.

Application

• Do we get impatient with people holding up a long line, but then expect understanding from people whom we hold up?
• Do we get mad at someone who cuts us off in traffic, but expect patience when we “accidentally” pull out too closely in front of someone?
• Using manners shows basic respect for every human being.