When a British
scholar called on the world’s religions to work together for worldwide unity,
people everywhere applauded. Pointing out that the major religions share a
belief in the Golden Rule, she suggested, “The chief task of our time is to
build a global society where people of all persuasions can live together in
peace and harmony.”
Jesus cited the
Golden Rule in His Sermon on the Mount: “Do to others what you would have them
do to you” (Matt. 7:12). In the same sermon, He said, “Love your enemies and
pray for those who persecute you” (5:44). Putting those radical commands into
practice would indeed go a long way toward peace and harmony. But immediately
following the Golden Rule, Jesus called for discernment. “Watch out for false
prophets,” He warned. “They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they
are ferocious wolves” (7:15).
Respect for
others and discernment of the truth go hand in hand. If we have the truth, we
have a message worth telling. Our responsibility is to lovingly present the
truth and respect the personal choice of others just as God does.
Our respect for
others is vital to winning their respect. It’s an important step in gaining an
opportunity to convey the message of Jesus, who said, “I am the way and the
truth and the life” (John 14:6).
Love people; love the truth. (ODB)
