The Gospel reading from the end of Matthew’s chapter 22 is quite brief yet remarkably profound. The passage opens with yet another echo of the conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities of the time (Mt 22:34-35). The Pharisees seek to trick Jesus into being selective among commandments, placing more importance on some commandments than others. This is something that the Pharisees thought would allow them to accuse him of disrespecting aspects of the law by favouring other parts. Jesus’ reply goes directly to the heart of the Jewish Torah and, indeed, to that of the Christian faith (Mt 22:37). Love God and love others, if these two principles are adhered to, the rest will take care of itself. Jesus concludes his response by affirming that the ‘on these two commandments hang the whole Law, and the Prophets also’ (Mt 22:40)
The famous Jewish scholar Hillel, writing late in the first century and quoted in the Babylonian Talmud, offers a very similar sentiment. He says “What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow man. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary; go and learn it.” Babylonian Talmud, Tractate 31a. Jesus’ response alongside Hillel’s remarks emphasise how the Gospel, and the Jewish Torah, ultimately carry a very simple and straightforward message. While we may look to a wider body of teaching for guidance with specific matters, ultimately, our love of God and of our neighbour is the barometer by which all else is measured. If our actions are aligned with such love then they cannot be wrongs. However, if our actions are at odds with these commandments, then. Whatever the circumstances, we must view them as contrary to the Gospel.
Gospel Text: Matthew 22:34-40
When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees they got together and, to disconcert him, one of them put a question, ‘Master, which is the greatest commandment of the Law?’ Jesus said, ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second resembles it: You must love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments hang the whole Law, and the Prophets also.’
See
What is the motive behind the question from the Pharisees?
How does Jesus respond to the question?
What conclusion does Jesus give in his response?
Judge
What simple message is contained within Jesus’ response to the Pharisees?
How does this message function alongside other Christian teachings, on specific matters?
How can this text be used to guide our actions?
Act
Jesus quotes from the Jewish Torah in his response to the Pharisees. Research where this quote is from and whether other religions such as Islam, Buddhism etc. have similar texts.
How can I apply this text to specific circumstances within my own life situation?
What steps would be needed to apply this message to broader social settings?
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Gospel Text https://www.universalis.com/Australia/1100/mass.htm
Further Reading: