Lesson 25 – The Greatest Commandment

Matthew 22:36 - 40

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 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.

In this passage, a religious expert, referred to as a teacher of the law, approaches Jesus and asks Him about the most important commandment in the Law. The Law here refers to the commandments given by God to the Israelites in the Old Testament.

In response, Jesus quotes from the Old Testament, specifically from Deuteronomy 6:5, which states the greatest commandment: to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This commandment emphasizes the complete devotion and love that believers are to have for God, encompassing every aspect of their being.

This passage emphasizes the centrality of love in the Christian faith. It teaches that love is not just a sentimental feeling but an active, sacrificial, and selfless way of living. The love we have for God should motivate us to obey His commandments and to love and serve others in practical ways.