Sabbath School - Meat In Due Season Advanced Commentary

SS25-Q1-L12: Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments

March 15-21, 2025

Sabbath Afternoon–March 15, 2025

Scripture Reading for the Week:

Matt. 22:34-40; Zech. 7:9-12; Psalm 82; Micah 6:8; Matt. 23:23-30; Luke 10:25-37

Thought for Meditation

The purpose which God seeks to accomplish through His people today is the same that He desired to accomplish through Israel when He brought them forth out of Egypt. By beholding the goodness, the mercy, the justice, and the love of God revealed in the church, the world is to have a representation of His character. And when the law of God is thus exemplified in the life, even the world will recognize the superiority of those who love and fear and serve God above every other people on the earth. {CCh 78.3}

The love of Christ, manifested in unselfish ministry, will be more effective in reforming the evil-doer than will the sword or the court of justice. These are necessary to strike terror to the lawbreaker, but the loving missionary can do more than this. Often the heart that hardens under reproof will melt under the love of Christ.--The Ministry of Healing, p. 106. {ChS 189.1}

Memory Verse

If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? {1 John 4:20}

a 14:4}
Purpose of the Study

This week’s lesson explores the inseparable relationship between love and justice as revealed in God’s law. Jesus summarized the entire law in two great commandments—loving God and loving our neighbor (Matthew 22:34-40). Through the Scriptures, we will examine how divine love and justice work together, not as opposing forces but as complementary principles guiding God’s people in their relationship with Him and others. By studying the prophetic calls for justice, the warnings against hypocrisy, and Christ’s example of compassionate ministry, we will better understand how true obedience to God’s law is manifested in love-driven justice and justice-rooted love.

Introduction

Throughout history, God has sought to reveal His character through His people. Israel was chosen to demonstrate His justice, mercy, and love, yet they often failed by neglecting the weightier matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). The same challenge exists today. Many claim to love God while disregarding justice in their dealings with others, or they uphold justice without the spirit of love and mercy. However, true Christianity reflects both.

The Scriptures for this week—ranging from the prophetic rebukes of Zechariah and Micah to Christ’s teachings in the Gospels—emphasize that justice without love is harsh and legalistic, while love without justice is weak and ineffective. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) illustrates how genuine love is not just sentiment but action, meeting the needs of the oppressed and the suffering.

As we study this lesson, may we allow the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts so that we may reflect the perfect balance of love and justice in our daily lives, truly embodying the two greatest commandments.

Outline of the Study

The Main Point of the Law
Sunday-March 16, 2025

The Two Greatest Commandments

Matthew 19:16-23; Matthew 22:34-40.

Monday, March 17, 2025

The Two Greatest Sins

Psalm 135:13-19; Deut. 6:5; Zechariah 7:9-12; 1 John 4:20-21

Love and Justice

Tuesday-March 18, 2025

God Loves Justice

Psalm 82; Micah 6:8; John 13:35; 1 John 4:8-16.

Wednesday-March 19, 2025

Called to Establish Justice - The Most Important thing about eh Law

Isa. 1:17; Isa. 10:1-2; Isa. 10:3; Jer. 22:13-15, 16; Matthew 23:23-30; Luke 11:42.

Thursday-March 20, 2025

Who is My Neighbor?

Luke 10:29; Luke 10:25-37; Luke 4:16-21; Isaiah 61:1-2.

Friday-March 21, 2025

Insights and Further Study

The Main Point of the Law
Sunday-March 16, 2025

The Two Greatest Commandments

Matthew 19:16-23; Matthew 22:34-40.

“Jesus replied: “‘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.” (Matthew 22:37-40)

The Law as the Foundation of God’s Government

Jesus’ statement in Matthew 22:37-40 establishes that love is the very foundation of God’s law—love for God and love for others. These two commandments summarize the entire moral and prophetic teachings of the Bible. The first four commandments of the Decalogue (Exodus 20:3-11) focus on our duty to God, while the last six (Exodus 20:12-17) define our duty to others. This structure reveals that God’s justice and government operate upon love as a principle of righteousness.

Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) Insight:
Ellen G. White writes:

"The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all created beings depends upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 34)

This means that obedience to God’s law is not merely an outward observance but a heart-transformation that aligns us with God’s character.

God desires from all His creatures the service of love--service that springs from an appreciation of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience; and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary service. {PP 34.3}

So long as all created beings acknowledged the allegiance of love, there was perfect harmony throughout the universe of God. It was the joy of the heavenly host to fulfill the purpose of their Creator. They delighted in reflecting His glory and showing forth His praise. And while love to God was supreme, love for one another was confiding and unselfish. There was no note of discord to mar the celestial harmonies. But a change came over this happy state. There was one who perverted the freedom that God had granted to His creatures. Sin originated with him who, next to Christ, had been most honored of God and was highest in power and glory among the inhabitants of heaven. Lucifer, "son of the morning," was first of the covering cherubs, holy and undefiled. He stood in the presence of the great Creator, and the ceaseless beams of glory enshrouding the eternal God rested upon him. "Thus saith the Lord God; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty. Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering. . . . Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee." Ezekiel 28:12-15. {PP 35.1}

True Obedience vs. Legalistic Righteousness

In Matthew 19:16-23, the rich young ruler wanted to inherit eternal life through legalistic obedience, thinking that commandment-keeping alone would save him. However, Jesus revealed his lack of love and self-sacrifice, showing that true obedience is not just external compliance but complete surrender to God.

The inspiration emphasizes that the rich young ruler represents many professed believers today who obey externally but lack true love and commitment to Christ. True obedience means:

A transformed heart that obeys out of love, not obligation (Jeremiah 31:33).
A willingness to forsake self-interest for the sake of others (Isaiah 58:6-7).
Not just keeping the law but embodying its principles in daily life.

Lesson: Legalism without love is dead religion. True Christianity is not just about rule-keeping but reflecting God’s love in action.

Love and Justice Are Inseparable

The Pharisees in Matthew 22:34-40 prided themselves in their knowledge of the law, but Christ exposed their hypocrisy. They focused on legal details while neglecting justice, mercy, and faith (Matthew 23:23).

SOP Insight:

“The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ’s day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 309)

Likewise, the final remnant church must avoid legalism and hypocrisy. The Shepherd’s Rod warns that many today claim to follow God but fail to exercise justice and love toward their brethren (Zechariah 7:9-12). The purification of the church (Ezekiel 9) will separate those who truly keep the commandments out of love from those who only profess faith.

“The Danger of Mere Theoretical Knowledge”

In all human experience a theoretical knowledge of the truth has been proved to be insufficient for the saving of the soul. It does not bring forth the fruits of righteousness. A jealous regard for what is termed theological truth often accompanies a hatred of genuine truth as made manifest in life. The darkest chapters of history are burdened with the record of crimes committed by bigoted religionists. The Pharisees claimed to be children of Abraham, and boasted of their possession of the oracles of God; yet these advantages did not preserve them from selfishness, malignity, greed for gain, and the basest hypocrisy. They thought themselves the greatest religionists of the world, but their so-called orthodoxy led them to crucify the Lord of glory. {DA 309.2}

“The Danger of a Profession Without Transformation”

The same danger still exists. Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. But they have not brought the truth into practical life. They have not believed and loved it, therefore they have not received the power and grace that come through sanctification of the truth. Men may profess faith in the truth; but if it does not make them sincere, kind, patient, forbearing, heavenly-minded, it is a curse to its possessors, and through their influence it is a curse to the world. {DA 309.3}

Lesson: True faith balances love and justice. The remnant church must exemplify Christ’s character by showing mercy, compassion, and fairness in all dealings.

Summary

The Law is built on love, which defines both our relationship with God and with others.
Obedience must come from a transformed heart, not mere rule-following.
Love and justice must be balanced—hypocrisy and legalism lead to spiritual downfall.

As we prepare for the soon establishment of God’s kingdom, we must internalize these two greatest commandments, allowing love and justice to guide our lives and ministry.

Consider the Following

❖ The two main commandments.

— How does love relate to the Law (Mt. 22:37-40)?

(1) Love God - Deut. 6:5

I. May God be your only Love

II. God does not need intermediaries to receive your love

III. Show your love for God by respecting his name

IV. Spend Saturday connecting with the Creator and Redeemer you love.

(2) Love your neighbor - Lev. 19:18

V. Love your parents at all times

VI. Show your love by respecting the lives and feelings of others

VII. Love your spouse and always be faithful

VIII. Love respects what belongs to the other

IX. Love without hurting with his words

X. Love without coveting what belongs to the one you love

— True justice is demonstrated by loving. That is what Jesus asked of the rich young man, who believed himself to be righteous: show with actions your love for others [“give to the poor”], and your love for God [“come, follow me”] (Mt. 19:16-22).

Monday, March 17, 2025

The Two Greatest Sins

Psalm 135:13-19; Deut. 6:5; Zechariah 7:9-12; 1 John 4:20-21

“He [Ahab] behaved in the vilest manner by going after idols […] Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow ” (1 Kings 21:26a; Isaiah 1:17b)

The Two Greatest Sins: Idolatry and Oppression

The passages for this study reveal that the two greatest sins condemned throughout Scripture are:

Idolatry – Turning away from the true God to worship false gods or placing anything above Him (Psalm 135:13-19; Deuteronomy 6:5).
Oppression of the vulnerable – Neglecting justice, mercy, and love, particularly toward the needy and helpless (Zechariah 7:9-12; Isaiah 1:17).

These sins are deeply intertwined. When people forsake God (idolatry), they inevitably become unjust and cruel toward others (oppression).

Idolatry: The Root of All Apostasy

Psalm 135:13-19 contrasts the living God with lifeless idols, emphasizing the foolishness of worshiping things that cannot see, hear, or act. Idolatry is not just bowing to images but also placing anything—wealth, power, or self—above God.

Biblical Example: King Ahab (1 Kings 21:26)

Ahab was one of Israel’s most wicked kings because he led the nation into Baal worship.
His idolatry resulted in moral corruption, injustice, and persecution of God’s prophets (1 Kings 18:4, 21:1-16).

SOP Insight:
Ellen White warns:

“Anything that separates our affections from God and lessens our interest in eternal things is an idol.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 305)

The law was not spoken at this time exclusively for the benefit of the Hebrews. God honored them by making them the guardians and keepers of His law, but it was to be held as a sacred trust for the whole world. The precepts of the Decalogue are adapted to all mankind, and they were given for the instruction and government of all. Ten precepts, brief, comprehensive, and authoritative, cover the duty of man to God and to his fellow man; and all based upon the great fundamental principle of love. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself." Luke 10:27. See also Deuteronomy 6:4, 5; Leviticus 19:18. In the Ten Commandments these principles are carried out in detail, and made applicable to the condition and circumstances of man. {PP 305.2}

"Thou shalt have no other gods before Me." {PP 305.3}

Lesson: Idolatry weakens spiritual discernment and leads to moral decline. Modern forms of idolatry—love of money, self-glorification, and materialism—are just as dangerous as ancient idol worship.

Oppression: The Sin of Hardening the Heart

Zechariah 7:9-12 and Isaiah 1:17 call God’s people to execute true justice, show mercy, and care for the fatherless, widows, and the oppressed. However, Israel refused to listen, hardening their hearts like stone.

Biblical Example: The Pharisees (1 John 4:20-21)

They claimed to love God but hated their fellowmen, showing hypocrisy and self-righteousness.
Christ rebuked them for neglecting justice, mercy, and faith while focusing on outward piety (Matthew 23:23).

SOP Insight:

“The religion of Christ lifts the receiver out of himself, away from self-serving. He who beholds Jesus, realizing the cost of His sacrifice, will be filled with a love so deep, so strong, that he will be constrained to impart to others.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 384)

The sanctification of the soul by the working of the Holy Spirit is the implanting of Christ's nature in humanity. Gospel religion is Christ in the life--a living, active principle. It is the grace of Christ revealed in character and wrought out in good works. The principles of the gospel cannot be disconnected from any department of practical life. Every line of Christian experience and labor is to be a representation of the life of Christ. {COL 384.1}

Love is the basis of godliness. Whatever the profession, no man has pure love to God unless he has unselfish love for his brother. But we can never come into possession of this spirit by trying to love others. What is needed is the love of Christ in the heart. When self is merged in Christ, love springs forth spontaneously. The completeness of Christian character is attained when the impulse to help and bless others springs constantly from within--when the sunshine of heaven fills the heart and is revealed in the countenance. {COL 384.2}

The inspiration highlights that in the last days, idolatry and oppression will exist among professed believers, leading to church purification (Ezekiel 9). Many who claim to worship God will be found guilty of spiritual idolatry (false doctrines) and oppression (unjust leadership and hypocrisy).

Lesson: True worship must be accompanied by true justice. Loving God requires us to love and serve others selflessly.

Summary

Idolatry and oppression are the two greatest sins because they destroy our relationship with God and others.
Modern idolatry (love of self, power, and material things) leads to spiritual blindness and injustice.
A true Christian must reflect God’s love through justice, mercy, and compassion.

As we prepare for God’s kingdom, we must examine our hearts—do we truly love God and our fellowmen? If not, we must repent and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us.

Consider the Following
❖ Holy, righteous and good.
— The Law, as a reflection of God's character, not only reflects His love, but also other divine characteristics (Rom. 7:12): His holiness (Rev. 4:8,) His justice (Jn. 17:25) and His goodness (Lk . 18:19.)
— Written in stone, the Law is a testimony to God's unchanging character (Ps. 19:7-8.)
— But did not Jesus make void the Law by nailing it to the cross, as many teach? As Paul said, “God forbid!” (Rom. 3:31.)
— The apostle clearly says that, once saved by Jesus, we should not continue sinning (Rom. 6:1-2.) This implies that the Law is still in force, since it is what tells us that we are sinners (Rom. 7:7; 1Jn. 3:4.)
— Christ did not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill all that was promised in the Law and in the Prophets. That is why He insists that “while heaven and earth exist,” “not one letter, not one point of the Law will pass away” (Mt. 5:18.)

Love and Justice

Tuesday-March 18, 2025

God Loves Justice

Psalm 82; Micah 6:8; John 13:35; 1 John 4:8-16.

“The LORD loves justice and righteousness; the earth is full of his love” (Psalm 33:5)

The character of God is a perfect balance of love and justice. While many emphasize His love, true love cannot exist apart from justice. God’s justice is not arbitrary punishment but an essential part of His divine order, ensuring that righteousness prevails and evil is addressed. The Scriptures affirm that God's love is demonstrated through His righteous judgments and the equitable administration of His law.

The Biblical Principle of Justice

Psalm 82 presents God as the ultimate Judge, calling leaders to execute justice for the weak, the fatherless, and the afflicted. This echoes Micah 6:8, where God’s requirement for His people is clear: “To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8. Justice is not merely about punishment but about restoring right relationships, upholding truth, and ensuring fairness for all, especially the vulnerable.

Jesus exemplified this principle in His life and ministry. In John 13:35, He declares that His followers will be known by their love for one another. Love and justice are inseparable, for love without justice leads to lawlessness, and justice without love results in legalism. The Apostle John reinforces this in 1 John 4:8-16, affirming that God is love, and His love was manifested in Christ’s sacrifice for humanity.

The Spirit of Prophecy on Love and Justice

Ellen G. White writes: “The very essence of the gospel is restoration, and the Savior would have us bid the discouraged and hopeless take hope. Every deed of justice done, every act of mercy, every word of pity, is a reflection of God’s character.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 387). Justice is part of God's redeeming work, not simply about punishment but about the restoration of His people to righteousness.

Sin is the greatest of all evils, and it is ours to pity and help the sinner. But not all can be reached in the same way. There are many who hide their soul hunger. These would be greatly helped by a tender word or a kind remembrance. There are others who are in the greatest need, yet they know it not. They do not realize the terrible destitution of the soul. Multitudes are so sunken in sin that they have lost the sense of eternal realities, lost the similitude of God, and they hardly know whether they have souls to be saved or not. They have neither faith in God nor confidence in man. Many of these can be reached only through acts of disinterested kindness. Their physical wants must first be cared for. They must be fed, cleansed, and decently clothed. As they see the evidence of your unselfish love, it will be easier for them to believe in the love of Christ. {COL 387.1}

Furthermore, she warns against neglecting justice in religious experience: “There are many who fail to understand that true justice is the expression of love. Christ’s life and death are a testimony that God’s law is immutable. His justice and His mercy stand in perfect harmony.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 762). This underscores that divine justice is an expression of divine love.

Through Jesus, God's mercy was manifested to men; but mercy does not set aside justice. The law reveals the attributes of God's character, and not a jot or tittle of it could be changed to meet man in his fallen condition. God did not change His law, but He sacrificed Himself, in Christ, for man's redemption. "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself." 2 Corinthians 5:19. {DA 762.1}

Justice and Love

The inspiration highlights that God’s justice is seen in His dealings with His people. In inspiration, it states: “God’s justice is not only to punish the wicked but to cleanse His church, that she may stand as a beacon of light.” (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 164). This aligns with the prophetic cleansing of God’s people before the establishment of His kingdom. The separation of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13) is an act of divine justice to purify the church, ensuring that love and truth reign.

Additionally, the Judgment of the Living is presented as an act of divine justice that is also rooted in God’s love. The Rod teaches that “those who sigh and cry for the abominations in the church will be sealed” (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 28), emphasizing that true followers of Christ reflect both His love and His justice in their lives.

Application: Living Out God’s Justice and Love

As believers, we are called to reflect God’s character in our daily lives. This means:

Standing for truth and justice in our communities and churches.
Defending the oppressed and advocating for righteousness.
Demonstrating Christ’s love in action by ministering to those in need.
Seeking the purification of the church and personal spiritual growth.

Love and justice are the foundation of God’s kingdom. Those who uphold these principles will be prepared to stand in the final work of purification and restoration.

God’s love is not passive—it is active in executing justice and righteousness. As we approach the establishment of His kingdom, we must embrace both His love and His justice, living lives that reflect His divine character.

May we heed the call to “do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.”

Consider the Following

❖ Law and Grace.
— Just as many think that love and justice are mutually exclusive, they also think that Grace and Law are antagonistic. But the truth is that each has its own function:
(1) The Law teaches us to differentiate between good and evil
(2) Grace forgives us when we break the Law, and enables us to continue choosing the good.
— Furthermore, they work together in purpose. God's Grace works within us, engraving the Law on our hearts (Jer. 31:33; Heb. 8:10.)
— The Law, on the other hand, shows us our sin and leads us to Christ, through whom we obtain forgiveness (Gal . 3:24.)
— Salvation is a free gift from God (Eph. 2:8.) We do not keep the law to save ourselves, but because we have been saved and, as a consequence, we want to put our lives in harmony with God's will.

Wednesday-March 19, 2025

Called to Establish Justice - The Most Important thing about the Law

Isa. 1:17; Isa. 10:1-2; Isa. 10:3; Jer. 22:13-15, 16; Matthew 23:23-30; Luke 11:42.

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.” (Matthew 23:23)

The law of God is often reduced to rituals and external obedience, but Jesus emphasized that the weightier matters of the law are justice, mercy, and faithfulness. While outward religious observance has its place, it must never replace the true spirit of the law—establishing justice and righteousness. God’s call to His people has always been to uphold justice, defend the oppressed, and ensure equity in society and the church.

Justice: The Core of God’s Law

Isaiah 1:17 commands, “Learn to do good; seek justice, rebuke the oppressor; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow.” This highlights God’s concern for social justice, revealing that true religion is not just about ceremonial observances but about standing for righteousness. Isaiah 10:1-2 pronounces woe upon those who make unjust laws and deprive the needy of their rights. Jeremiah 22:13-15, 16 further echoes that a leader who does righteousness and justice truly knows the Lord.

Jesus rebuked the religious leaders in Matthew 23:23 for their hypocrisy in tithing meticulously while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Similarly, in Luke 11:42, He pointed out their misplaced priorities—focusing on outward piety while ignoring the needs of the people. These passages remind us that justice is at the heart of God’s law and should be reflected in the lives of His followers.

The Spirit of Prophecy on Justice and Mercy

Ellen G. White strongly emphasizes that justice is an essential part of Christian life: “A religion that leads men to place a low estimate upon human beings, whom Christ has esteemed of such value as to give Himself for them, a religion that would lead men to be careless of human needs, sufferings, or rights, is a spurious religion.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 327). She affirms that true worship is not just about doctrine but about reflecting God’s character in dealing with others.
These plain utterances of the prophets and of the Master Himself, should be received by us as the voice of God to every soul. We should lose no opportunity of performing deeds of mercy, of tender forethought and Christian courtesy, for the burdened and the oppressed. If we can do no more, we may speak words of courage and hope to those who are unacquainted with God, and who can be approached most easily by the avenue of sympathy and love. {PK 327.1}

Rich and abundant are the promises made to those who are watchful of opportunities to bring joy and blessing into the lives of others. "If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not." Isaiah 58:10, 11. {PK 327.2}

She also warns against the dangers of self-righteousness and neglecting justice: “Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. But they have not brought the truth into practical life. They have not believed and loved it; therefore they have not received the power and grace that come through sanctification of the truth.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 309). This statement aligns with Christ’s rebuke to the Pharisees, who outwardly kept the law but lacked love and justice.

The rabbis counted their righteousness a passport to heaven; but Jesus declared it to be insufficient and unworthy. External ceremonies and a theoretical knowledge of truth constituted Pharisaical righteousness. The rabbis claimed to be holy through their own efforts in keeping the law; but their works had divorced righteousness from religion. While they were punctilious in ritual observances, their lives were immoral and debased. Their so-called righteousness could never enter the kingdom of heaven. {DA 309.1}

The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ's day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness. In all human experience a theoretical knowledge of the truth has been proved to be insufficient for the saving of the soul. It does not bring forth the fruits of righteousness. A jealous regard for what is termed theological truth often accompanies a hatred of genuine truth as made manifest in life. The darkest chapters of history are burdened with the record of crimes committed by bigoted religionists. The Pharisees claimed to be children of Abraham, and boasted of their possession of the oracles of God; yet these advantages did not preserve them from selfishness, malignity, greed for gain, and the basest hypocrisy. They thought themselves the greatest religionists of the world, but their so-called orthodoxy led them to crucify the Lord of glory. {DA 309.2}

The Shepherd’s Rod on Establishing Justice

The Shepherd’s Rod literature stresses that justice is not just about punishing wrongdoing but about purifying God’s people. It states: “The purity of the church is maintained by the enforcement of divine justice. The cleansing foretold in Malachi 3:1-3 is God’s work to establish justice among His people.” (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 28).

Furthermore, it highlights that the Judgment of the Living is about distinguishing between true and false worshippers: “God’s justice demands that His house be clean before He sets up His kingdom.” (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 164). This reveals that divine justice begins with the house of God, ensuring that His people uphold His law in spirit and in truth.

Application: Living a Life of Justice and Mercy

God calls us to:

Actively seek justice and defend the oppressed.
Avoid hypocrisy by aligning our actions with God’s principles.
Show mercy and faithfulness in our dealings with others.
Support the purification of the church to establish true justice.

Justice is the foundation of God’s government, and those who uphold it will be part of His final work of restoration.

Summary

True obedience to God’s law is not just about religious rituals but about living out justice, mercy, and faithfulness. As we prepare for Christ’s kingdom, we must ensure that we are not merely professing righteousness but actively practicing it. May we be found faithful in upholding the weightier matters of the law. Amen.

Consider the Following
❖ The most important thing about the Law.

— Tithing even the smallest thing is obeying the law and therefore doing what is right (Mt 23:23a). So why does Jesus say that the actions of the scribes and Pharisees set aside justice (Mt. 23:23b)?

— To do justice is not to be fair, but to apply the Law correctly to others. Hence, in the Law itself [the Pentateuch] there are exceptions to protect the helpless (Deut. 24:17-21).

— Nearly all the prophets have words of rebuke for those who act unjustly toward others or fail to apply justice in love (Isa. 1:23; Jer. 22:3; Ez. 22:7; Zech. 7:10). For Isaiah, for example, seeking justice involves helping the helpless (Isa. 1:17).

— Nehemiah was outraged when, under the protection of the law, the rich demanded the repayment of loans without taking into account the poverty of their brothers (Neh. 5:6-11).

Thursday-March 20, 2025

Who is My Neighbor?

Luke 10:29; Luke 10:25-37; Luke 4:16-21; Isaiah 61:1-2.

“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers? The expert in the law replied, The one who had mercy on him. Jesus told him, Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10:36-37)

The parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the most profound illustrations of God’s love and justice. In response to the lawyer’s question, “Who is my neighbor?”, Jesus turned the focus from legalism to compassionate action. True religion is not merely about knowing the law but about living out love and mercy, regardless of race, nationality, or social status.

Who Is My Neighbor?

Luke 10:25-37 presents the Good Samaritan as a model of true Christian character. The priest and Levite, though religious leaders, neglected their duty to show mercy. The Samaritan, despised by the Jews, exemplified selfless love and righteousness. Christ’s message is clear: our neighbor is anyone in need, and we are called to extend love beyond boundaries.

Christ’s Mission: To Bind Up the Brokenhearted

In Luke 4:16-21, Jesus reads from Isaiah 61:1-2, declaring His mission:

To preach good news to the poor
To heal the brokenhearted
To proclaim liberty to captives
To set the oppressed free

These words define true neighborly love—a mission not of self-preservation but of active service to humanity. Christ, the Good Samaritan of heaven, came to rescue fallen humanity, demonstrating the highest standard of love.

The Spirit of Prophecy on True Neighborly Love

Ellen G. White affirms that Christianity is not about profession but practice. She writes:

“It is not possible for the heart in which Christ abides to be destitute of love. If we love God because He first loved us, we shall love all for whom Christ died.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 384)

She also warns against religious formalism without love:

“A selfish disregard for the needs of others is fatal to spiritual growth. Love must be the principle of action.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 504)

White highlights that true religion leads us to see every suffering soul as our neighbor, compelling us to minister to their needs.

The Shepherd’s Rod on Practical Christianity

The Shepherd’s Rod literature emphasizes the necessity of putting faith into action. It teaches that true religion is not only about doctrinal knowledge but about living out the principles of God’s kingdom:

“The Lord’s people must rise above mere profession and become doers of the word. Faith without works is dead.” (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 22)

It further states that God’s final work includes a purification of His people, ensuring that only those who reflect Christ’s love and justice will stand:

“The work of separating the wheat from the tares includes testing our character by our deeds. The call is for practical godliness, a genuine concern for our fellow men.” (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 164)

This highlights that our treatment of others is part of the final judgment.

Application: Living as True Neighbors

To be true followers of Christ, we must:

Show compassion regardless of differences.
Seek justice and mercy in all our dealings.
Actively help the needy, as Jesus did.
Live unselfish lives, reflecting Christ’s love.

The world is filled with spiritual and physical suffering. Will we walk by, or will we be the hands and feet of Christ?

Summary

Jesus' command, “Go and do likewise”, is not just a suggestion—it is a divine mandate. True righteousness is seen in how we treat others, especially those in need. May we embrace the call to be Good Samaritans in a hurting world, preparing for the kingdom of God. Amen.

Consider the Following

❖ Who is my neighbor?

— Many understood that the command recorded in Leviticus 19:18 to love one’s neighbor applied only to those who were Israelites. If you are not an Israelite, you are not my neighbor. However, not everyone held that view. Thus, one scribe who asked a question that he himself was capable of answering wanted to justify himself by asking, “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:25-29).

— Jesus did not reveal the nationality of the wounded man on the road to Jericho. Neither the priest nor the Levite, who were examples of fulfilling the Law, were interested in the helpless man. However, a “non-neighbor,” a Samaritan, was “moved with mercy” and fulfilled the Law of loving one’s neighbor as oneself (Luke 10:30-37).

— The enemy seeks power and cares about his own well-being. Jesus left his throne, humbled himself, and came down to serve others and give his life for us. Who will we imitate? Let us be followers and imitators of Jesus.

Friday-March 21, 2025

Insights and Further Study

This week’s study on the Two Greatest Commandments has shown us the inseparable relationship between love and justice in God’s law. Jesus’ command to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves, forms the foundation of true Christianity. These commandments are not mere rules to follow but are meant to transform our lives, prompting us to act justly and mercifully toward others.

We have seen through the parable of the Good Samaritan that love is not limited by social boundaries, race, or status, but is extended to all in need. True love reflects justice, and true justice is rooted in love, as God’s nature is both just and loving. Justice, when exercised without love, becomes harsh and oppressive, while love without justice leads to permissiveness.

In our lives, we are called to live out these principles by defending the oppressed, seeking justice, and showing mercy to others. True religion is not about outward observance but about living with a heart of compassion and integrity. As followers of Christ, let us strive to uphold the weightier matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness—so that we may reflect the character of our Savior and be a light in a world in need of true love and justice.

May we, through our actions, embody these commandments and share the love and justice of God with those around us. Amen.

Sunday, March 16, 2025 – The Two Greatest Commandments

Key Insight:
Jesus summarized the law in two commandments:
- Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind (Deuteronomy 6:5).
- Love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18).
Further Study:

Inspiration References:

"The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all intelligent beings depends upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 34)
"Love, the basis of creation and of redemption, is the basis of true education." (Education, p. 16)

"Thus it is that while the law enjoins supreme love for God and impartial love for man, it does not in any way enslave its adherents, but rather exalts them to the highest pinnacle of joy." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 152)

Further Reflection:

The law is not a burden but a principle of divine love.
The rich young ruler’s problem was selfishness, which contradicts love for God.

Monday, March 17, 2025 – The Two Greatest Sins

Key Insight:
The two greatest sins are idolatry (failing to love God) and injustice (failing to love others).
Further Study:

Inspiration References:

"The spirit of idolatry is indeed in the world today, though it assumes a form different from that of ages past. The second commandment forbids the worship of the true God by images or similitudes." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 306)
"The sin that is indulged to the greatest extent, that separates us from God and produces so many spiritual disorders, and which are contagious, is selfishness." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 384)
"The two greatest sins which lead to all others are, first, the rejection of light, and second, the formation of idols." (2TG No. 22, p. 22)

Further Reflection:

Idolatry today is not just about images but misplaced priorities (money, fame, self).

The rejection of justice and mercy is a sign of spiritual blindness.

Tuesday, March 18, 2025 – Love and Justice: God Loves Justice

Key Insight:
God’s love is always righteous and just. Love without justice leads to permissiveness; justice without love leads to harshness.
Further Study:

Inspiration References:

"In the great judgment day those who have not worked for Christ, who have drifted along, carrying no responsibility for the salvation of others, will be classed with those who did evil." (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 365)
"Pure religion is an imitation of Christ. The Lord expects His people to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly before Him." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 125)

"God’s love is inseparable from justice, for without justice, love ceases to be pure and holy." (2TG No. 41, p. 22)
"A lack of justice is the greatest enemy of love." (White House Recruiter, p. 35)

Further Reflection:

Love must be active—it defends the weak, not just a feeling.
Justice is not an option but a requirement of true faithfulness.

Wednesday, March 19, 2025 – Called to Establish Justice

Key Insight:
Justice is central to God’s law, and religious rituals mean nothing without it.
Further Study:

Inspiration References:

"The greatest want of the world is the want of men—men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name." (Education, p. 57)
"The principles of God's law must be wrought into the very life. It is God’s design that men shall not only know the truth, but that they shall become pure and noble through obedience to the truth." (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 55)

"Justice is the primary duty of the Christian. When it is lacking, all other forms of righteousness are mere pretense." (1TG No. 9, p. 11)
"The weightier matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faith—are often neglected by those most zealous for tradition." (2TG No. 25, p. 18)

Further Reflection:

True religion champions justice, not just ritual observance.
Pharisees focused on minor details while neglecting the core of the law.

Thursday, March 20, 2025 – Who is My Neighbor?

Key Insight:
The Parable of the Good Samaritan teaches that our neighbor is anyone in need.
Further Study:

Inspiration References:

"It is a law both of the intellectual and the spiritual nature that by beholding we become changed." (Great Controversy, p. 555)
"There are many who are dwelling in darkness, needing the bright rays of the Sun of Righteousness to dispel the shadows from their pathway." (Desire of Ages, p. 141)
"The Good Samaritan is a type of Christ and His work through His church in the last days, while the Levite and the priest represent those who claim to be His people but fail in mercy and justice." (1TG No. 16, p. 17)
"The loud cry message will restore the true meaning of ‘Who is my neighbor?’" (White House Recruiter, p. 32)

Further Reflection:

- 1. A neighbor is anyone in need, regardless of race or status.
  2. The church is called to be the Good Samaritan in action.

Final Summary of the Week

The Law’s Purpose: Love and Justice are inseparable.
The Two Greatest Sins: Idolatry and injustice separate us from God.
God's Justice: It requires active faith, not mere observance.
True Religion: It defends the oppressed, not just upholds traditions.
Who is My Neighbor? Anyone in need, not just those like us.

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