The Greatest Commandment

The in-depth summary of each bible study differs from the small group bible study laid out before the leader and the students.  The in-depth overview is designed to help the leader with comprehensive information, much more than in the text notes at the bottom of every bible page.  The small group studies are intended to be interactive, provide a learning atmosphere for students, and have open discussions allowing for interpretations of what the gospels’ witnessed.  An exhaustive search was completed on each verse to help the leader answer questions that may come up during the study.

After conducting some research, we have discovered that the two Synoptic Gospels, Matthew 22:34-40 and Mark 12:28-34 cover the “Greatest Commandment” Jesus teaches the disciples.  Luke, however, uses some of the verses in the Greatest commandment to explain the parable of “The Good Samaritan.”

1)     The Sadducees are silenced. (Read the verse outlined in purple: Matthew 22:34-35, and Mark 12:28a) During Jesus' time, the Pharisees and Sadducees were two of the most prominent sects in Judaism. They held differing beliefs and practices, which often led to clashes between them. When Matthew mentions that "the Pharisees were gathered together," it is unclear why they were gathered. They may have been celebrating the silence of the Sadducees or planning a new strategy to trap Jesus.  In contrast, Mark's account of the incident emphasizes Jesus' response to the Pharisees' question. He answers the question "well," which leaves them speechless. This may have been an unexpected turn of events for the Pharisees, who were known for their legal expertise and debating skills. The Pharisees then formulate another question to test Jesus. The person asking the question is not named, but he is referred to as a "lawyer." In biblical times, a "lawyer" was an expert in the Jewish legal system, particularly the law of Moses. This question was not intended to test Jesus' knowledge but rather his judgment.   Mark identifies the man as a scribe, Matthew identifies the man as a lawyer.  Is there any difference between the two? If so, what?  While both terms essentially mean the same thing, there may be some subtle differences between them. For example, a scribe may have been more focused on copying and interpreting texts, while a lawyer may have been more involved in legal disputes and decision-making. Overall, this incident highlights the tensions between Jesus and the religious leaders of his time. Despite their best efforts to trap him, Jesus remains steadfast in his teachings and ultimately proves himself to be a wise and knowledgeable teacher. 

2)     “Which is the greatest commandment?” (Read the verse outlined in red: Matthew 22:36, and Mark 12:28b).  The question that has been the subject of much debate and discussion among scholars and theologians of the time, was related to the number of commandments in the books of Moses. According to the rabbis of that era, the total number of commandments was 613, which included 365 prohibitions and 248 commandments. The commandments were further classified into greater and lesser commandments within the 248 commandments. This classification system was indicative of the importance and significance of each commandment in the Jewish faith, and the careful attention that was paid to their interpretation and implementation.

In what book are the 613 commandments in the Bible?  Jewish tradition holds that the Torah, which is the sacred text of Judaism, contains precisely 613 commandments. These commandments, also known as mitzvot, are said to be binding on all Jewish people and are believed to have been communicated directly from God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Torah itself consists of five books of Moses - Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy - which chronicle the creation of the world, the history of the Jewish people, and the laws and commandments that govern Jewish life. It is the centerpiece of Jewish religious life and is studied and revered by Jews around the world.

If we are to study the greatest commandment, we need to first cover the Ten Commandments, then move to Jesus’ answer. 

What are the Ten Commandments? (Read Exodus 20:3-17)

The Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments, also known as the Decalogue, are a set of ethical and religious principles that are the foundation of both Jewish and Christian law.  The Ten Commandments are grouped together.  Commandments 1-4 demonstrate the love of God.  Commandments 5-10 demonstrate the love for your fellow man.

Man’s Love for God

(1)   You shall have no other gods before Me. (Exodus 20:3).  In the Bible, the first commandment given to the Israelites was against polytheism. This commandment was significant because the nation of Israel had just come out of 430 years of bondage under Egypt, where the Egyptians and several other neighboring nations worshiped many different gods. Therefore, the Israelites were very susceptible to being influenced by the Egyptian culture for many years. Some Israelites may have even developed favoritism with some of the Egyptian gods. The commandment reads, "You shall have no other gods before me." The phrase "Before me" in the commandment means "before my face" or "side by side with me" or "in addition to me." The meaning behind this phrase is that God is the only living God, and He is to be loved, worshiped, and obeyed. This commandment sets the stage and makes it clear that there should be no other god(s), seen or unseen, besides Him. However, even if we do not worship another "god(s)," we are still at risk of giving glory to another entity that is due to God. This could even be directed inwardly towards things like money, pride, or food. Therefore, it is important to understand that this commandment is not just a prohibition against worshipping other gods, but it is also a reminder that God is the only true God, and He should be put first in our lives.  In conclusion, this commandment is a crucial reminder that there is no other God besides the Living God, and He should be loved, worshiped, and obeyed above all else. When we put God first in our lives, we honor Him and follow His will, which ultimately leads to a life of purpose and fulfillment.  Read Jesus’ encounters with God being the one and only God in Matthew 4:10,

(2)   4You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; 5you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, 6but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments. (Exodus 20:4-6).  The second commandment is against image worshiping.  There are three verses covering the second commandment.

(a)   In the fourth verse of the text, God explicitly states that it is strictly forbidden to worship any kind of image, whether it be in the likeness of anything in heaven, on earth, or beneath the earth. This includes any object that represents a false god or one that symbolizes Yahweh. The reason behind this prohibition is that God does not have any physical form, and any attempt to create an image of Him would be a sinful misrepresentation of His true nature.  It is worth noting that the use of images in worship was prevalent in many ancient cultures, and the Israelites were no exception. The practice of creating images of gods and goddesses was commonplace in the surrounding cultures, but Yahweh strictly forbade His people from adopting such practices. This was because He wanted His people to understand that He was not a mere physical entity but a spiritual being who transcended all physical limitations.  Therefore, the fourth verse serves as a reminder to the Israelites and all believers that God cannot be reduced to a mere object or image. Any attempt to represent Him in this way would be a violation of His true nature and a distortion of His divine essence.  Jesus has His interpretation of this explaining you cannot serve two masters in:  Matthew 6:24, and Luke 16:13.

(b)  In verse (5) states that God is a jealous God who demands exclusive devotion to himself. This commandment is known as the First Commandment and it prohibits the worship of any other gods, idols, or images. It emphasizes that God is the only true God and that he should be the only one worshiped and served.  The use of the term "jealous" in this context means that God desires the full and undivided attention and loyalty of his people. The worship of other gods or idols is considered an act of hatred, disloyalty, and repudiation towards God. Such an act is a direct violation of the covenant between God and his people.  Moreover, this commandment carries the implication that the sins of the fathers are passed down to their children and the next two generations. This means that the consequences of idolatry and disobedience to God's commandments can affect not only the individual but also their descendants.  In summary, the First Commandment highlights the importance of exclusive devotion to God and the prohibition of worshiping any other gods or idols. It emphasizes the significance of loyalty and obedience towards God and warns against the consequences of disobedience.

(c)   In verse (6) Within the passage, verse 6 emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commandments. It states that those who abide by His laws will be rewarded with God's mercy for a thousand generations. This serves as a testament to the immense compassion and generosity that God possesses, as His mercy outweighs His wrath. The verse also highlights the significance of upholding God's teachings, as it is through obedience to His commandments that one can receive His boundless mercy.

(3)   You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain. (Exodus 20:7).  There a couple ways God’s name can be taken in vain. 

(a)   Using profanity in God's name involves disrespectfully or irreverently using His name, such as in cursing or swearing, or using it to express negative emotions. This act is considered offensive and hurtful to those who hold religious beliefs and value the sanctity of God's name. It is important to be mindful of our words and actions, especially when it comes to matters of faith and reverence.

(b)  Swearing an oath in court is a crucial aspect of the legal system that helps ensure justice is served. When a person takes an oath, they pledge to speak the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. However, there are certain implications and consequences of this practice that are often overlooked.  One crucial aspect that individuals should be aware of is the gravity of using God's name when swearing an oath. If someone uses God's name with the intention of deceiving others, they commit the sin of taking the Lord's name in vain. This is a serious offense that disrespects God's sacred name and authority. It is therefore essential for individuals to treat God's name with reverence and respect in all circumstances. Taking the Lord's name in vain isn't just restricted to courtroom oaths. It also encompasses everyday speech. For instance, using God's name in a frivolous or irreverent manner, such as in cursing or expressing frustration, is also a form of taking His name in vain. Therefore, it's crucial to be mindful of our words and actions and always treat God's name with reverence and respect. By doing so, we can honor His divine authority and uphold the values of truth and justice.

(4)   Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore, the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it. (Exodus 20:8-11)   What day of the week is the Sabbath?  The Sabbath day is a significant day in many religions, including Judaism and Catholicism. For the Jewish faith, the Sabbath is observed on Saturday, while Roman Catholics also recognize Saturday as the Sabbath day. It is believed that God commanded His people to keep the Sabbath day holy, and this has been a practice for centuries. 

In the time before Jesus' arrival, keeping the Sabbath day holy meant that people had to abstain from all kinds of labor or work. This included preparing meals, conducting business, and doing household chores or yard work. To comply with this commandment, people had to prepare for all their meals the day before and avoid all activities that could be considered work. 

However, when Jesus arrived, He brought a new perspective to the Sabbath. He performed healing miracles on the Sabbath, as mentioned in Matthew 12:1-14, which challenged the traditional understanding of the Sabbath. In verses 11-12, Jesus says that if a sheep falls into a pit on the Sabbath, one will naturally save the sheep and pull it out. How much more valuable is a person? So, the Law allows people to do good on the Sabbath. 

Today, people still observe the Sabbath day, but the understanding of what it means to keep the Sabbath day holy has evolved. It is important to note that what is considered work may vary from one person to another, and it is up to individuals to determine what is appropriate for them on this day. The Sabbath is a day of rest for God, and He wants us to rest and worship Him. It is a day to reflect on our faith, spend time with family, and engage in activities that bring us closer to God.

Man’s Love for Each Other

(5)   Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12).  Honoring someone or something is a complex process that involves recognizing their value and worth and treating them with respect and reverence. It is a way of acknowledging the contributions they have made, and appreciating the unique qualities that make them special. Honoring someone can take many forms, including showing gratitude, offering praise, and expressing admiration. It can also involve taking care of them, supporting them, and honoring their wishes or commands when appropriate.

Honoring someone or something requires a deep understanding of their needs, desires, and goals. It involves listening carefully to their words and actions and responding with empathy and kindness. It also requires a willingness to put aside our own needs and desires, and to prioritize the well-being of others. By doing so, we can create positive relationships and foster a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

However, it is important to note that honoring someone does not mean tolerating abuse or mistreatment. In situations where someone is being harmed or mistreated, it is important to prioritize their safety and well-being above all else. This may involve seeking help and support from loved ones or reaching out to professional resources for assistance.

In summary, honoring someone or something is a powerful act of recognition and respect that can help build positive relationships and foster a sense of unity and understanding. It requires a deep understanding of others' needs and desires, and a willingness to prioritize their well-being above our own. By doing so, we can create a more compassionate and harmonious world where everyone feels valued and respected.  Here’s Jesus’ interpretation of honor your father and you mother in Matthew 15:4-5, Mark 7:7-12.

(6)   You shall not murder. (Exodus 20:13).  In Hebrew, the word "murder" is translated as "רצח" (ratzach), which specifically refers to the act of unlawfully killing someone or intentionally committing murder. On the other hand, the word "kill" is translated as "הרג" (harag), which has a broader meaning and can refer to killing someone either intentionally or accidentally, lawfully or unlawfully. In order to determine whether the killing was accidental or premeditated and deliberate, it is important to analyze the context in which the word is used. However, many Bible translations use the word "kill" instead of "murder," which can cause confusion about the gravity of the act. Read Jesus’ interpretation of the Law of murder in Matthew 5:21-26.

(7)   You shall not commit adultery. (Exodus 20:14).  The sanctity of marriage is highly valued by God and is considered as a binding agreement between two individuals and God. Adultery, which is the act of being unfaithful to one's spouse, was considered a serious sin in the eyes of God. In Leviticus 20:10, it is stated that if a man commits adultery with another man's wife, both the adulterer and the adulteress must be put to death. This illustrates the severity with which God views the sin of adultery. Read Matthew 5:27-30. 

Read Matthew 5:27-30—Jesus’ interpretation of the Law of adultery:

Jesus explains if someone looks at a woman lustfully, he has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Jesus details the commandment that adultery is not merely in regards to the external act but the secrets of the heart and the intention of seeing lust with one’s eyes.

(8)   You shall not steal. (Exodus 20:15) The act of theft, regardless of its form, is strictly forbidden and considered a violation of an individual's rights. Whether it involves taking physical possession of someone else's belongings, robbing them of their innocence, or forcefully depriving them of their freedom, it is all considered stealing. Taking or stealing the innocence of a woman’s virtue or purity against her will is a form of rape.  This holds true for a man as well.  Stealing of a person or human trafficking or kidnapping.  Even the theft of a person's thoughts or ideas is a grave infringement of their intellectual property rights. As responsible members of society, we must always uphold the principle of respecting the property and rights of others. The significance of this principle is further reinforced by the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasized the importance of this commandment, along with five others, to His disciples in Matthew 19:18, Mark 10:19, and Luke 18:20. Furthermore, in John 10:10, Jesus explains that a thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy, while He has come to bring life in abundance, which highlights the destructive nature of theft.    

(9)   You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. (Exodus 20:16).  The act of bearing false witness or providing false testimony is a serious offense that can have significant consequences. It can severely damage a person's reputation and deprive them of their rights. The importance of witnesses in the Old and New Testament cannot be overstated. The presence of multiple witnesses was critical for the authenticity of an event. A witness is someone who has personally seen the evidence or action and testifies to the truth of the event.

In the Old Testament, Deuteronomy 17:6 and 19:15 established strict conditions for evidence provided by witnesses. To establish an accusation, a minimum of two witnesses was required. Similarly, in the New Testament, 2 Corinthians 13:1 and 1 Timothy 5:19 emphasized the importance of multiple witnesses. At least two witnesses were required to establish any charge.

The requirement for multiple witnesses was significant because it ensured the reliability and accuracy of the testimony presented. It also prevented false accusations and unfair judgments. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the importance of bearing truthful testimony and the significance of multiple witnesses in establishing the truth of an event.

(10)                      You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s. (Exodus 20:17).  The last commandment deals with coveting, which is the eager and strong desire to have something that belongs to another person.

Coveting is the first commandment that deals with controlling one's thoughts, as opposed to one's actions, which are the basis of the previous commandments. The word "covet" means to desire or wish for something eagerly. Sometimes, the two different kinds of "covets" are separated into two commandments.

The first kind of coveting refers to anything that belongs to your neighbor's house. This includes their possessions, fields, cars, and anything else that they own. Coveting your neighbor's possessions is an expression of envy towards them, which is commonly known as "keeping up with the Joneses". This violates the commandment, as it is forbidden to covet anything that belongs to your neighbor.

The second type of coveting refers to the desire for your neighbor's spouse or their male or female servants. Lustfully desiring your neighbor's spouse or servants is a breach of this commandment. To covet your neighbor's spouse is to wish that they were yours and to lust after them. This also applies to your neighbor's male or female servants. They are not to be lusted after or desired in a lustful manner.

The third type of coveting refers to anything that belongs to your neighbor, including animals, such as oxen or donkeys. For instance, if your neighbor has a prized racehorse, wanting, needing, or desiring it would be a violation of this commandment. Similarly, if your neighbor has a great harvest and bears good fruit, coveting their harvest is also a violation of this commandment.

Finally, it is forbidden to speak falsely about your neighbor. This would cause damage to their reputation, character, and standing within the community. This is also a violation of this commandment, as it goes against the principles of honesty and respect for others.

3)     Jesus states the Greatest Commandment: (Read the verse outlined in blue: Matthew 22:37-38 and Mark 12:29-30) What are the four key elements in loving the Lord your God? Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.  

4)     Which element was omitted by Matthew? Strength.

5)     Where is this found in the Old Testament?  Read: Deuteronomy 6:5-6.  Think about the first four commandments of ten commandments.  These are the God commands man to have a love for God.

6)     The Jewish prayer.  Found in Deuteronomy 6:5-6, Matthew 22:37-39 and Mark 12:29-31.  What did the Jewish people call Deuteronomy 6:5-6?  The Shema.

7)     Why would the Jewish people pray this prayer?  The Shema prayer was of immense importance to the Israelites, as it represented their unwavering devotion to the LORD and their gratitude for being rescued from the shackles of slavery in Egypt. Each time they repeated or prayed the Shema, it served as a poignant reminder of their faith and the extraordinary events that had led them to freedom. The prayer not only reinforced their beliefs, but also helped them to reflect on their history and the blessings that had been bestowed upon them. Indeed, the Shema was a powerful symbol of the Israelites' unbreakable spirit and their unshakeable bond with their Creator.

8)     What does it mean to love the Lord your God with all your heart?  The origin of the English word "cardiologist" can be traced back to the Greek word "kardiá" which means heart. This word is mentioned over 800 times in the New Testament and primarily refers to the spiritual heart rather than the physical one.

The spiritual heart encompasses a wide range of aspects that include an individual's moral compass, the ability to differentiate between right and wrong, feelings of affection, fondness, and love, as well as warmth and closeness towards someone. It is also the driving force behind devotion, loyalty, faithfulness, and commitment to loving God. Simply put, obeying and adhering to God's laws and teachings is a commitment to love Him.

Moreover, the spiritual heart reveals one's true desires. It is believed that what is in an individual's heart shapes their character and destiny. As mentioned in Proverbs 27:19, a person's heart is like a garden that requires constant tending to ensure that it is pure and free of impurities.

9)     What does it mean to love the Lord your God with all your soul?  The Greek language holds within it a beautiful word, "ψυχή" or "psychi" in pronunciation, that captures the essence of our being. This term has paved the way for the field of Psychology to emerge, allowing us to delve deeper into the workings of our soul. Our soul is the very abode of our emotions and will, the core of our being. It demands that we surrender our current way of living and wholly pledge ourselves to serving and fulfilling God's intentions. This means being willing to make sacrifices, even laying down our lives, should He command it. Such is the power and significance of the human soul.

10) What does it mean to love the Lord your God with all your mind?  The Old Testament book of Deuteronomy 6:5 teaches us to submit to God with our entire intellect. Loving God is not a mere utterance of words, but an act of putting His laws and teachings above all else. It is an act of prioritizing our relationship with God over all other choices and decisions in life.

To truly love God, we must make a conscious effort to know Him. And there's no better way to know Him than by reading and studying His Word. Understanding God's teachings is crucial to loving and appreciating Him. For we cannot love or appreciate someone we do not know.

As we begin to comprehend God's word and teachings, we develop a deeper love for Him. Our knowledge of God transforms us from the inside out, bringing us closer to Him and helping us understand His divine purpose for our lives.

11) What does it mean to love the Lord your God with all your strength?  The word "strength" is an abstract noun that denotes a sense of force, power, or ability. The term is derived from the Greek word "ischyos," which refers to the physical and mental robustness required to accomplish a task or overcome an obstacle. In Hebrew, "strength" is derived from the root word "me'ode," which connotes a quality that is considerable, diligent, or exceedingly genuine. It refers to the inner fortitude, perseverance, and resilience that are necessary to succeed in life.

In English, "strength" can also be translated as "might." However, this doesn't necessarily imply the use of brute force. Instead, it signifies the effort and passion we put into loving and serving God. It can be seen as an extension of our faith, as we draw on our spiritual resources to face the challenges of life. We tap into our inner strength to overcome adversity and to make a positive impact on the world around us.

In situations where brute force is required, we must surrender to God, give our best effort, and work hard for His glory. We must use our strength wisely and responsibly, never abusing it or using it to harm others. When we use our strength for good, we honor God and fulfill our purpose in life.

12) How do we demonstrate this love to God?  By obeying commandments 1-4. 

13) Which term does Matthew omit?  Strength.

14) Love your neighbor as yourself. (Read the verse outlined in green: Matthew 22:39, Mark 12:31a).  The importance of loving our neighbors cannot be overstated. It is a fundamental principle that promotes empathy, kindness, and compassion towards every person around us. To demonstrate this love for one another, we can follow Commandments 5-10, which provide a framework for acting lovingly and respectfully towards others. Additionally, Leviticus 19:18 emphasizes the importance of not seeking revenge and promoting forgiveness and reconciliation, which are key components of loving our neighbors.

In Luke 10:26-28, a lawyer approached Jesus with a sincere desire to understand how he could inherit eternal life. When asked by Jesus what was written in the law, the lawyer responded with the summary of the law: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself." However, the lawyer was still unclear about who his neighbor was and how he could demonstrate love towards them.

To answer this, Jesus shared the parable of the good Samaritan in Luke 10:29-37. This parable is a powerful example of how we can show love to those around us, regardless of their background or circumstances. It reminds us that our neighbor is anyone in need, and we should be willing to help them, even if it means going out of our way or sacrificing our own time and resources. By following the example of the good Samaritan, we can demonstrate true love and compassion towards our neighbors, just as Jesus taught us.

15) How do we demonstrate our love for our neighbor?  By obeying commandments 5-10. 

16) These two commandments are the greatest commandments (Read the verse outlined in black: Matthew 22:40, and Mark 12:31b).  During a conversation with a highly skilled and knowledgeable Pharisee, Jesus was asked to identify the most important commandment in the law, encompassing all the Scriptures of the Old Testament. In response, Jesus provided a clear and straightforward answer, emphasizing the all-encompassing nature of the greatest commandment. He stated that the most important commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, which means loving God with every fiber of your being. Jesus further emphasized the importance of showing compassion and empathy towards others, declaring that the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as you love yourself. This was a unique teaching because no one before Jesus had combined these two commandments. Jesus' teachings continue to inspire and guide millions of people around the world, emphasizing the importance of love, compassion, and empathy towards others.

17) The Lawyer’s response. (Read the verse outlined in orange: Mark 12:32-34) The Gospel accounts of Matthew and Mark narrate an interaction between Jesus and a scribe who asked him about the greatest commandment.  While Matthew's account does not mention the Pharisee's response to Jesus' answer, Mark's account reveals that the lawyer agreed with Jesus. The scribe then reiterated Jesus' greatest commandments, adding that it is more significant than all the burnt offerings and sacrifices.  Jesus acknowledged the writer's understanding and praised him by saying that he was "not far from the kingdom of God."

This event highlights the significance of having a proper understanding of the Old Testament, its laws, and requirements, which can prepare the mind to accept Christianity when presented.  It emphasizes the importance of comprehending the teachings of the Old Testament and how it can lead to a deeper understanding of Christianity.

Following this conversation, no one dared to ask Jesus any questions. Not even the scribes, the Pharisees, or the Sadducees dared to tempt or entangle him.  Jesus' response had silenced them completely, showing his authority and wisdom. This event demonstrates how Jesus' teachings challenged and disrupted the traditional beliefs of the religious leaders of his time.

18) Prior to the Good Samaritan Parable (Read the verse outlined in grey: Luke 10:25-28).  In the Gospel of Luke, there is a significant story called the Parable of the Good Samaritan. However, before this story, there was a conversation between Jesus and a lawyer who asked Jesus a crucial question, "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus replied to the lawyer by asking him to describe the Shema, one of the most important prayers in Judaism. The lawyer was able to provide the answer, but he then asked Jesus, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus responded with the story of the Good Samaritan, which illustrated the importance of showing compassion and love to all people, regardless of their background.

Later, Jesus told the lawyer that if he applies the two greatest commandments, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind" and "Love your neighbor as yourself," to his life, he will live. It's essential to note that Jesus did not tell the lawyer that he would inherit eternal life by following these commandments. Salvation has always been through grace by faith, and Jesus' message was meant to emphasize the importance of living a life of love and compassion towards others.

If you would like to learn more about this topic, you can read about it in the study of the Parable of the Good Samaritan, which provides a deeper understanding of the lessons that Jesus was trying to teach through this story.

 We trust that our comprehensive explanation of the Greatest Commandment has provided you with the knowledge you were seeking.