The Six Words of the Gospel : The Great Ethics in Christian Life

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewhaedo Church teaches six gospel laws in addition to the ten commandments of the Old Testament. These laws are grounded in Jesus' teachings in the book of Matthew and hold significant importance for Christians in their daily lives. Let us explore these laws in detail:

1.     "Do not be angry with your brother for nothing." - This law is based on Matthew 5:22, where Jesus warns that anger towards others can lead to judgment and punishment. Church father Augustine added that excessive and unjustified anger becomes a sin.

2.     "Do not look at a woman and do not commit adultery in your heart." - This law draws inspiration from Matthew 5:27, where Jesus emphasizes the significance of not looking at someone lustfully since it is equivalent to committing adultery. According to the church Father Origen, we should guard our thoughts and avoid temptations that may result in sin.

3.     "Don't divorce your wife except for adultery." - This law is derived from Matthew 5:32, where Jesus affirms that divorce should be allowed only in cases of marital infidelity. Church father John Chrysostom believed that marriage is a sacred covenant that should not be easily broken.

4.     "Do not swear at all." - This law stems from Matthew 5:34, where Jesus instructs us not to make oaths or swear by anything but instead let our yes be yes and our no be no. The church father Tertullian believed swearing was unnecessary and could lead to lying and deceit.

5.     "Don't repay evil with evil." - This law comes from Matthew 5:39, where Jesus urges us to turn the other cheek and not seek revenge. The church father Basil the Great taught that forgiveness is essential in Christian life and that we should always strive to love our enemies.

6.     "Love your enemy." - This law is founded on Matthew 5:45, where Jesus teaches that we should love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. The church father Augustine believed that loving one's enemies is a sign of genuine Christian love and can help foster peace and understanding.

In summary, these six laws are critical principles for Christians to follow in their daily lives. They encourage us to avoid anger, lust, divorce, swearing, and revenge and instead promote love and forgiveness towards others, even those who oppose us.