So then, whatever you want people to do for you, do the same for them, because this is the essence of the Law and the Prophets.
In this passage Jesus presents the “Golden Rule,” which calls people to act toward others as they would want others to act toward them. This encourages principles of mutual love, respect, and justice in personal and public life. Jesus explains that this one simple rule sums up the whole Law and the teaching of the prophets, meaning that if a person follows this rule, he will do God’s will by loving his neighbor and acting with kindness. This rule is not only a moral guide, but also expresses a complete approach by which people should build relationships, grounded in respect, justice, and love.