The Royal Law

The term "Royal Law" is derived from the Epistle of James in the New Testament, where James refers to the commandment to love one's neighbor as oneself as the "royal law." James 2:8 states, "If you really fulfill the royal law stated in Scripture, 'Love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing well." This law is considered "royal" because it is a supreme commandment that encapsulates the essence of God's moral expectations for humanity. It is a law that governs the kingdom of God and reflects the character of the King Himself.

The Royal Law is rooted in the Old Testament, specifically in Leviticus 19:18, which commands, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This commandment is foundational to the ethical teachings of both the Old and New Testaments and is central to the moral teachings of Jesus Christ.

Love in the Teachings of Jesus

Jesus Christ emphasized love as the greatest commandment. In Matthew 22:37-40 , Jesus responds to a question about the greatest commandment by 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." Here, Jesus highlights that love for God and love for neighbor are inseparable and foundational to the entire biblical law.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further illustrates the practical application of this love. Jesus uses the parable to define "neighbor" in a broad sense, extending beyond ethnic and social boundaries, and to demonstrate that love is an active, selfless concern for the well-being of others.

Love in the Epistles

The Apostle Paul also underscores the importance of love in his letters. In Romans 13:8-10 , Paul writes, "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The commandments, 'You shall not commit adultery,' 'You shall not murder,' 'You shall not steal,' 'You shall not covet,' and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law."

Paul's teaching aligns with the Royal Law by affirming that love is the fulfillment of the law. Love is not merely an emotion but an active commitment to the good of others, reflecting the sacrificial love of Christ.

The Nature of Christian Love

Christian love, or agape, is characterized by selflessness, sacrifice, and a commitment to the well-being of others. It is a love that mirrors the love of God, who "demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). This divine love is the model for Christian conduct and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to love beyond their natural capacity.

In 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the "Love Chapter," Paul describes the attributes of love, stating that love is patient, kind, and does not envy or boast. It is not proud, rude, or self-seeking. Love is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs. It rejoices with the truth and always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. This passage serves as a guide for Christians in their relationships with others, emphasizing that love is the greatest of all virtues.

Conclusion

The Royal Law and the command to love are central to the Christian faith, encapsulating the ethical teachings of both the Old and New Testaments. They call believers to a life of selfless love, reflecting the character of God and fulfilling His commandments.