3. How did Jesus set out the principle that sums up God’s law? Matthew 22:36-40.
NOTE: ‘The first four of the Ten Commandments are summed up in the one great precept, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart.” The last six are included in the other, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Both these commandments are an expression of the principle of love. The first cannot be kept and the second broken, nor can the second be kept while the first is broken. When God has His rightful place on the throne of the heart, the right place will be given to our neighbour. We shall love him as ourselves. And only as we love God supremely is it possible to love our neighbour impartially.’ Desire of Ages, page 607.
4. What story did Jesus tell to explain this principle of love? Luke 10:29-37.
NOTE: ‘In giving this lesson, Christ presented the principles of the law in a direct, forcible way, showing His hearers that they had neglected to carry out these principles. His words were so definite and pointed that the listeners could find no opportunity to cavil [raise an objection]. The lawyer found in the lesson nothing that he could criticise. His prejudice in regard to Christ was removed. But he had not overcome his national dislike sufficiently to give credit to the Samaritan by name. When Christ asked, “Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?” he answered, “He that showed mercy on him.” “Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.” Show the same tender kindness to those in need. Thus you will give evidence that you keep the whole law.’ Christ’s Object Lessons, page 380.