Bible Discussion Thread

In exodus,, the law clearly states,; There is to be no coveting or barring false witnesses against a neighbor.

Without stating it, the passages implies it is permissible to covet and bare false witness

against a stranger. Why else would the word neighbor be used?

Hello David. I think your question can best be answered by Jesus Who dealt with this same enquiry by a Jewish lawyer: Luke 10:25-37.

Other passages in the Bible that speak of 'neighbour', generally referred to those in one's own community, as that was what Israel was mostly concerned with. All others were Gentiles to whom Israel had no close dealings with. Unfortunately, they did sin by integrating often with them (idolatry, inter-marriage, slaves, etc.), but the idea of neighbourliness was generally confined to their community or tribe.

Therefore, Jesus' illustration is an apt example of who our neighbour is; not just in our neighbourhood or those we know, but includes all others who come across our life's path. Therefore, I could covet someone else's possessions (or bear false witness against him) even if he only came briefly into my physical view or brought to my knowledge.

David welch on Exodus 20 Throughout Gods word there are alwaystwo Great commandments which always hold

true ander the patriarchs the law and grace. Mathew 22:35-40. Thy neighbor is a friend in context and the same

applied all throughout the old testament. Romans 12:17-21.

Hello David In the gospel of Mathew the Royal law applies here in 37-40 the second half love thy neighbor

as thyself, the word neighbor if friend. The word neighbor in Exodus is friend or companion and is used 13 times

the idea is we walk according to Gods rules with all and then God will deal with it. That's my understanding

In Romans 12:18-21 is our rule in the Church.