God’s Heart For The PoorНамуна

The Good of Others

Christians have a tendency to argue over where to draw boundaries—moral, ethical, spiritual, etc. Perhaps Paul knew this would be the case, so he wanted to refocus us on the main issue. He admonishes us to refrain from seeking our own good, but instead to focus on the good of others.

Paul also cautions us to not only consider whether the action is lawful, because it may be lawful without being edifying. The welfare of others must also be considered.

In Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus says, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

When decisions present themselves, what should we ask ourselves? How do we go about making a decision? Our considerations must go beyond whether something is lawful. How does our decision impact others? Does it harm or help the others who are involved? Am I seeking out the good of others or simply trying to please myself?