Module 2 - Part 1: The Law of Reciprocity
Lesson Commentary
Reciprocity means give and take. It's the law of cause and effect, and we see it all around us. When you say, "You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours," that's reciprocity. So is the old expression, "You get what you pay for!"
Jesus gave this principle much greater importance though. He said that God judges your heart by the way you give. When you truly love someone, you want to lavish your treasures upon him. Whatever your gifts—time, money, talent, affection—they express your love. But when your heart is cold, you hold back.
There are two important lessons in the Law of Reciprocity. The first lesson is to show your love by giving. The second lesson is from the Sermon on the Mount in the Bible that says this: "Love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without hoping to get anything back" (see Luke 6:35-38). When you give from a loving heart, God sees your gifts and rewards you accordingly. But when you give in pride, a little worldly flattery is the best you can expect in return.
This principle of the kingdom affects your relationships with your loved ones, neighbors, friends, and even strangers. It also affects your relationship with God. The Law of Reciprocity shows that you're blessed when you use what God has given you to bless others.