Matthew 7:12, as found in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, reads: “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.”

1. Authorship, Audience, and Historical Context

The Book of Matthew is traditionally believed to have been written by the Apostle Matthew, who was a tax collector before he became a disciple of Jesus Christ. This is not universally accepted among modern scholars, some of whom propose that the book was written by an unknown author using Matthew’s teachings and testimonies. However, for our purposes, let’s assume traditional authorship by Matthew.

Matthew was writing primarily to a Jewish audience. This is evidenced by the numerous references to the Old Testament and Jewish customs throughout the book. Matthew often explicitly ties the teachings and actions of Jesus to Old Testament prophecies to show Jesus as the promised Messiah, a figure familiar to and awaited by the Jewish people.

The Gospel of Matthew is commonly dated to around 80-90 AD. This is after the destruction of the Jerusalem temple in 70 AD, a cataclysmic event for the Jewish people of the time, and something that likely would have greatly impacted the early Christian community.

2. Scriptural Context and Interpretation

Matthew 7:12 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, which spans chapters 5-7 of Matthew. This sermon is one of Jesus’ most extended pieces of teaching in the gospels.

Verses leading up to Matthew 7:12, from Matthew 7:1-11, include teachings about judging others, the power of persistent prayer, and God’s goodness in giving gifts to His children. These verses culminate in the golden rule encapsulated in Matthew 7:12, the teaching that we should treat others as we would wish to be treated ourselves.

The verse that follows, Matthew 7:13, introduces a new section of the sermon, a teaching about the narrow and wide gates, which is an allegory for the choices we make in life.

In summary, Matthew 7:12 serves as a succinct summation of ethical conduct and a culmination of Jesus’ teachings about the kingdom of heaven up to that point in His sermon.

3. Comparison with Other Popular Translations

New International Version (NIV): “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”

English Standard Version (ESV): “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

While the wording varies, the essential message remains the same across translations: Treat others as you would wish to be treated, encapsulating the spirit of the teachings found in the “Law and the Prophets,” a shorthand for the entire Old Testament.

Now that we have examined Matthew 7:12 in detail, let’s proceed to the quiz. Please note that the questions are crafted to be challenging and provide further insight into the text, context, and its implications. The explanations for each correct answer offer additional depth to your understanding.

Reflecting on the Golden Rule: Living Matthew 7:12 Today

Introduction

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This age-old wisdom, known as the Golden Rule, holds profound value and relevance even in our contemporary world. Interestingly, its roots can be traced back to the Book of Matthew, in the Bible, specifically Matthew 7:12. In this article, we’ll dissect this compelling scripture, its context, and explore its practical applications in our daily lives.

The Message of Matthew 7:12

What Does Matthew 7:12 Say?

In the King James Version, Matthew 7:12 reads: “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” Essentially, this is a command for empathy and kindness – treating others the way we’d want to be treated.

Who Wrote Matthew 7:12?

The Gospel of Matthew is traditionally believed to have been written by the apostle Matthew, a tax collector turned disciple. Written primarily for a Jewish audience, the book connects Old Testament prophecies with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

The Context of Matthew 7:12

Sermon on the Mount

Matthew 7:12 forms part of the larger discourse known as the Sermon on the Mount (Chapters 5-7). In this sermon, Jesus elucidates the principles of God’s kingdom, setting the standards for moral conduct.

Preceding Verses: Ask, Seek, Knock

Before the Golden Rule in Matthew 7:12, Jesus teaches about persistence in prayer (Matthew 7:7-11). He assures that God is more willing to give good things to those who ask Him.

Succeeding Verses: The Narrow and Wide Gates

Immediately after Matthew 7:12, Jesus talks about two gates: the narrow gate that leads to life, and the wide gate that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13-14). These verses contrast the consequences of righteous living and following worldly ways.

Applying Matthew 7:12 Today

Personal Interactions

One of the most immediate applications of the Golden Rule is in our personal interactions. Treat colleagues, family, and friends with the respect, kindness, and fairness you desire. This mindset promotes empathy and understanding.

The Power of Empathy

Understanding another’s viewpoint fosters compassion, allowing you to treat others in ways that acknowledge their feelings and perspectives. Could empathy be the secret sauce in applying the Golden Rule?

In Conflict and Disagreement

Even when conflict arises, remembering Matthew 7:12 can guide our reactions. Responding with patience and grace can diffuse tension and promote reconciliation.

FAQ

1. What is the significance of Matthew 7:12?

Matthew 7:12, known as the Golden Rule, is significant as it encapsulates the essence of Christian ethical conduct – treating others the way we wish to be treated.

2. How does Matthew 7:12 relate to other teachings of Jesus?

Jesus consistently taught about love, mercy, and kindness. Matthew 7:12 encapsulates these teachings, urging believers to express these virtues in their interactions with others.

3. How can I apply Matthew 7:12 in my daily life?

To apply Matthew 7:12, strive to treat everyone with kindness, fairness, and respect. Whether in personal relationships or dealing with strangers, allow empathy and understanding to guide your actions.

4. How does Matthew 7:12 fit into the larger Sermon on the Mount?

Matthew 7:12 serves as a summary of the ethical teachings in the

Sermon on the Mount, encapsulating the idea of love for others that undergirds the Beatitudes and Jesus’ teachings on law.

5. Who was the audience for the book of Matthew?

The Gospel of Matthew was primarily written for a Jewish audience, connecting Old Testament prophecies to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

6. What is the context of Matthew 7:12?

Matthew 7:12 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, situated after teachings on prayer and before warnings about the narrow and wide gates.

Conclusion

In the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced world, the timeless wisdom of Matthew 7:12 serves as a guiding principle, promoting kindness, empathy, and respect. As we journey through life, may we continuously strive to apply the Golden Rule in all our interactions. Remember, treating others as we would like to be treated not only fosters healthier relationships but also makes our world a better place.

Meta Description: Explore the profound wisdom of Matthew 7:12, the Golden Rule, in this detailed examination. Discover its context in the Book of Matthew and practical ways to apply it in our everyday lives.

1. What is the main teaching encapsulated in Matthew 7:12?

a. Pray persistently
b. Judge not others
c. Treat others as you would wish to be treated
d. Follow the narrow path

2. Matthew 7:12 is part of which larger sermon given by Jesus?

a. Sermon in the Temple
b. Sermon on the Mount
c. Sermon in Capernaum
d. Sermon on the Plain

3. In Matthew 7:12, what does the phrase “this is the law and the prophets” imply?

a. The necessity of following Mosaic law and prophetic teachings
b. The essence of Old Testament teachings is encapsulated in this verse
c. Only the Law and Prophets should be obeyed
d. Jesus’ declaration of being above the Law and Prophets

4. Which verse immediately precedes Matthew 7:12 in the Gospel of Matthew?

a. Matthew 7:10
b. Matthew 7:9
c. Matthew 7:11
d. Matthew 7:13

5. What significant event happened in 70 AD that might have influenced the context of the Gospel of Matthew?

a. The birth of Jesus
b. The Crucifixion of Jesus
c. The destruction of the Jerusalem temple
d. The conversion of Paul

6. What is traditionally believed to be Matthew’s profession before he became a disciple of Jesus?

a. Fisherman
b. Carpenter
c. Tax Collector
d. Tentmaker

7. What is the primary audience of the Gospel of Matthew?

a. Greek Pagans
b. Roman Centurions
c. Jewish people
d. Samaritans

8. Which chapter in the Gospel of Matthew begins the Sermon on the Mount?

a. Chapter 4
b. Chapter 5
c. Chapter 6
d. Chapter 7

9. How is the main teaching of Matthew 7:12 commonly referred to in modern times?

a. The Golden Rule
b. The Silver Statute
c. The Bronze Command
d. The Platinum Precept

10. What key topic does the verse following Matthew 7:12 (Matthew 7:13) introduce?

a. The Power of Persistent Prayer
b. The Narrow and Wide Gates
c. Treasures in Heaven
d. The True Disciples

Correct Answers and Explanations:

1. c. The central teaching in Matthew 7:12 is to “treat others as you would wish to be treated.” This maxim is universally recognized as the “Golden Rule” and forms the essence of many ethical systems.
2. b. Matthew 7:12 is part of the Sermon on the Mount. This sermon is one of Jesus’ most extended pieces of teaching in the gospels, spanning chapters 5-7 of Matthew.
3. b. The phrase “this is the law and the prophets” implies that the essence of Old Testament teachings is encapsulated in this verse. In saying this, Jesus is emphasizing that the principle of treating others as one would like to be treated captures the spirit of the Law and the Prophets, summarizing the ethical teachings of the Old Testament.
4. c. Matthew 7:11 is the verse immediately preceding Matthew 7:12. It speaks about the goodness of God in giving good things to those who ask Him.
5. c. The destruction of the Jerusalem temple in 70 AD is a significant event that likely influenced the context and readership of the Gospel of Matthew, given that it was a cata

clysmic event for the Jewish people of the time.

1. c. Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before he followed Jesus and became one of His twelve apostles.
2. c. The primary audience of the Gospel of Matthew is believed to be the Jewish people. This is inferred from the way the author repeatedly points to Old Testament prophecies to establish Jesus as the awaited Messiah.
3. b. The Sermon on the Mount begins in Chapter 5 of the Gospel of Matthew and extends through Chapter 7.
4. a. The main teaching of Matthew 7:12 is commonly referred to as “The Golden Rule” in modern times. This concept—of treating others as you would wish to be treated—is a universal principle found in many religions and ethical systems.
5. b. The verse following Matthew 7:12, Matthew 7:13, introduces the topic of the Narrow and Wide Gates. This is an allegory for the choices we make in life and their ultimate consequences.

Certainly, here are seven conceptual ideas for visuals based on Matthew 7:12, also known as the Golden Rule:

1. Scales of Reciprocity: A balanced scale sits at the center, with the beam shaped like an arrow, pointing rightward, to represent the forward action of doing to others. On one side of the scale is a figure giving kindness (depicted by a heart), while on the other side, a different figure is receiving it. This represents the equal exchange promoted by the Golden Rule.
2. Mirrored Actions: Two figures stand facing each other, separated by a thin, vertical, mirror-like barrier. One extends a hand in kindness (perhaps offering a fruit or a flower), the other mimics the action. This depicts the idea of treating others as you’d like to be treated.
3. Labyrinth of Choices: A figure stands at the entrance of a complex labyrinth. The path through the labyrinth forms the words “Do unto others…” The labyrinth symbolizes the complexity of ethical choices, yet the guiding principle is literally the path itself.
4. Seeds of Kindness: A person is planting seeds in a field, and the seeds are shaped like small hearts. The growing plants are shaped like the figures of people, demonstrating that the kindness you plant will grow and benefit others.
5. Bridging Differences: A deep chasm with diverse figures on either side. A bridge made of words from the Golden Rule spans the chasm, and people are walking across it, demonstrating that treating others as you want to be treated can bridge even the deepest divides.
6. Reflection in a Pool: A figure leans over a still pool of water. In the reflection, instead of their own face, they see the faces of many different people. This visualizes the concept that how we treat others is a reflection of ourselves.
7. Chain of Reciprocity: A large chain where each link is a different act of kindness. At the start of the chain is a person initiating an act of kindness, and the end shows another person receiving it, symbolizing the cyclical nature of the Golden Rule.

Remember, these are only conceptual and the final interpretation may be adjusted to suit the medium (linocut, woodcut, or screenprint) and the individual artist’s style.