On a tall stack of...
Illustration
Object:
On a tall stack of large boxes at the pharmacy each box carried a huge red sign: Bend
Your Knees. A child could read the sign and conclude that the pharmacy was cruel to its
employees, insisting they must bend their knees when picking up a box -- as
though the company were punishing all those who handled boxes. Adults, however,
understand that the reason is positive. Although written in the imperative, the "command"
is much more a warning than a prohibition.
The Old Testament has many commandments. Jews count them: 613. Some of them are phrased as positive and some as negative. When we get to the New Testament, however, Jesus summarizes the commandments with two, and they're both positive. Jesus helps us to see the broad, positive motivation behind all commandments. Jesus views God's commands as compassionate guidance for true human life.
The Old Testament has many commandments. Jews count them: 613. Some of them are phrased as positive and some as negative. When we get to the New Testament, however, Jesus summarizes the commandments with two, and they're both positive. Jesus helps us to see the broad, positive motivation behind all commandments. Jesus views God's commands as compassionate guidance for true human life.
