What isn't the Golden Rule?

Although memorizing Scripture can have tremendous power, sometimes a proverb becomes so familiar to us that we don’t pause to consider the alternatives it is rejecting by omission. I worry this is the sad state of the Golden Rule. Here, then, for the clarity of contrast are some Iron Pyrite Rules NOT contained in the Bible:

Do unto others as they have done unto you.

Do unto others as they deserve.

Do unto others as they have done unto others.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you as long as it doesn't cost too much.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you after you have your own needs taken care of.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, within reason.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you as long as you like them.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you as long as it’s convenient.

I think I’m not alone in being extremely glad God didn’t follow any of these rules when He fashioned our redemption.

2 comments:

PuzzlingChristian said...

What about do unto others all you can do and they take advantage of you?

Andrew Tallman said...

I believe that would put you very much in the same position God puts Himself in with regards to us on a regular basis. He gives, and we take advantage. He gives more, and we take advantage more. Nevertheless, He keeps giving. And that, in one sort of nutshell, is the entire Bible and the story of The Cross.