What distinguishes Christian love from the love of "tax collectors"? Setting the Scene “For if you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?” Tax Collectors: Love With Limits • Hired by Rome, they were viewed as traitors and extortioners (Luke 19:2, 7). • Their “love” was transactional—tied to gain, status, or mutual benefit. • They warmly greeted those who helped their livelihood, yet showed no obligation beyond that circle. Christian Love: Marked by the Cross • Extends beyond reciprocity – “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). – “Do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return” (Luke 6:35). • Fueled by God’s own example – “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). – The Spirit pours God’s love into our hearts (Romans 5:5), enabling what flesh cannot. • Sacrificial and proactive – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: patient, kind, keeps no record of wrongs. – Goes first in reconciliation (Matthew 5:23-24). • Evidence of genuine discipleship – “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). – Sets believers apart from common social courtesy. Key Contrasts " Tax-Collector Love " Christian Love " " ------------------ " -------------- " " Conditional " Unconditional " " Self-advancing " Self-giving " " Limited to insiders " Embraces outsiders and enemies " " Seeks immediate reward " Looks to heavenly reward (Matthew 5:12) " Living It Out Today • Greet and serve people who cannot repay—immigrants, prisoners, the poor. • Forgive offenses quickly, refusing to keep score. • Seek the good of ideological or cultural opponents. • Give time, resources, and encouragement without broadcasting it (Matthew 6:1-4). Why It Matters • Displays the gospel’s power to transform hearts. • Stores up eternal reward far beyond earthly paybacks (Matthew 6:19-21). • Invites others to taste God’s grace, moving them from outsider to family. Verses for Further Reflection Luke 6:32-36; Romans 12:20-21; Galatians 6:10; 1 John 4:10-11. |
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