The Great Commandments refer to two central commandments given by Jesus Christ, which encapsulate the essence of the Law and the Prophets. These commandments are foundational to Christian ethics and theology, emphasizing love as the core principle of the faith.

Biblical Context

The Great Commandments are recorded in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in Matthew 22:34-40, Mark 12:28-34, and Luke 10:25-28. In these passages, Jesus is approached by religious leaders seeking to test His understanding of the Law.

Matthew 22:34-40

In the Gospel of Matthew, a Pharisee, an expert in the law, asks Jesus, "Teacher, which commandment is the greatest in the Law?" Jesus responds by quoting Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18, saying:

“‘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. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:37-40)

Mark 12:28-34

In Mark's account, a scribe asks Jesus which commandment is the foremost of all. Jesus answers:

“The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” (Mark 12:29-31)

The scribe acknowledges Jesus' wisdom, and Jesus commends him, saying, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34)

Luke 10:25-28

In Luke, a lawyer tests Jesus by asking what must be done to inherit eternal life. Jesus turns the question back to him, asking what is written in the Law. The lawyer answers:

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind,’ and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Luke 10:27)

Jesus affirms his answer, saying, “You have answered correctly. Do this and you will live.” (Luke 10:28)

Theological Significance

The Great Commandments highlight the primacy of love in the Christian life. The first commandment underscores the necessity of loving God with one's entire being, reflecting the Shema, a central declaration of Jewish faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4-5. This love for God is comprehensive, involving heart, soul, mind, and strength, indicating total devotion and commitment.

The second commandment, to love one's neighbor as oneself, extends the principle of love to interpersonal relationships. It emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, calling believers to act with compassion, justice, and mercy.

Together, these commandments summarize the moral and ethical teachings of the Old Testament, as Jesus states that "All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments." (Matthew 22:40) They serve as a guiding framework for Christian conduct, urging believers to prioritize love in their relationship with God and others.

Practical Application

The Great Commandments challenge Christians to evaluate their lives in light of love for God and neighbor. This involves a holistic approach to faith, where worship, obedience, and ethical behavior are integrated. Loving God requires not only emotional affection but also intellectual engagement and physical action. Similarly, loving one's neighbor demands empathy, service, and a commitment to justice.

In the broader Christian tradition, these commandments have been foundational in shaping Christian ethics, influencing teachings on social justice, community life, and personal morality. They call believers to a radical love that transcends cultural, social, and religious boundaries, reflecting the love of Christ in a broken world.