Who Is Your Neighbour? Part 2

Early Morning With God (EMWG).

Morning Devotion from the Desk of Emma Deekor.

Bible Reading: Lev. 19:15-18.

Text: Psalm 101:5 KJV

"Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer."

The concept of neighbourliness in the bible requires a breakdown through study. Today we shall be looking at this topic from both the old and new testaments of the bible.

In the old testament the term "neighbour" primarily refers to a fellow Israelite, someone considered part of the people (Lev. 19:18). 

The focus was on the internal community and separating them from the surrounding nations.

The second thing to note about this concept is that specific laws were given to them as a community. For instance, in Exodus 22:25, they were instructed not to charge interest on loans given to their neighbours: fellow Israelites. Also, they were told to return any lost property to the owner as an obligation within the community of Israel (Jews).

Jesus break these barriers in the new testament. The parable of the good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 says it all. Here, the narrow definition of who your neighbour is was challenged. A Samaritan, who is not from the Jewish community acts with compassion, but those from the community and group walked away. 

From the story, Jesus shows that the Samaritan is the real neighbour, showing neighbourliness to be universal. The universal teaching of love Jesus gave in Matthew 5:44 shows that regardless of creed, religion or tribe, we should love everyone we come across in life.

Therefore, a neighbour is NOT just someone who lives next door. It is anyone in need, anyone who you can show God's love and compassion. The bible portrays God's love as universal (John 3:16). God extended His love to the world here, so we should do same.

This topic is a call to break barriers and extend God's love to the world around us. Start today by sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, the saviour of the world to someone.

Remain blessed and happy new week. Have a good day.

Emma Deekor

Is an elder, Deacon in the RCCG Faith & Miracle parish, Abuja. Former Director, IPPIS, Office of the Accountant-Gen. of the Fed., Abuja, Nigeria. Chartered Accountant, Financial Strategist.

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