Lesson 7: Social Responsibility

Abba

An affectionate word for “father” that some scholars suggest was similar to “daddy” in Aramaic (the laanguage Jesus spoke). Jesus taught us to call God “Abba”, Father.”

The Golden Rule

Jesus’ moral teaching to do unto others as you would have them do unto you

Justice

A cardinal virtue that is the constant and firm will to give God and neighbor their due

Peace

The security and stability of a just order

The Corporal Works of Mercy

Loving actions taught to us by Christ that help us meet a person’s physical needs. They are: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisioned, and bury the dead

The Spiritual Works of Mercy

Loving actions taught to us by Christ that help us meet the needs of a person’s soul. They are: instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, admonish sinners, bear wrongs patienly, forgive offenses willingly, comfort the afflicted, and pray for the living and the dead

Agapē love

Unconditional, self-sacrificing love, or charity. It is the love God has for us and the love we should have for everyone

Jesus’ Teaching on Love

Jesus thought that love is the highest commandment and seeks to reveal God’s love to the world

Greatest Commandent

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. Love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39)

The Social Effects of Jesus’ Teaching on Love

Jesus’ example and revelation of love dramatically transformed the world in unprecedented ways

The Golden Rule

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you

The Silver Rule

Do not do unto others what you would not have them do unto you