Extend Law Quote by John R.W. Stott
““The teachers of the law not only attempted to extend the law’s permissions; they also tried to restrict the law’s uncomfortable commands. For example, God’s law said ‘love your neighbour’. Tradition interpreted the word ‘neighbour’ narrowly, applying it only to a fellow-Israelite, or even simply to a friend.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Message of the Cross, 1978
Religious law expands permissions but also restricts uncomfortable commands; traditional interpretation narrows “neighbor” to a limited group, limiting love’s scope.
In simple terms: Law expands and limits; tradition narrows love to a few.
Key Takeaway
Challenge narrow interpretations of love.
Themes
theology
ethics
interpretation
Mood
inquisitive
hopeful
ethical
Type
theological
ethical
social
When to use this quote
- faith teaching
- interfaith dialogue
- social justice
- community building
Key Concepts
law versus tradition
inclusive love
neighbor definition
Questions to Reflect On
- How can communities broaden the definition of “neighbor”?
- What role should scripture play in expanding love?
A Different Perspective
Traditional views can resist broader, inclusive understandings.
