The golden rule was once a core value of our society, but sadly this is no longer true. Mr. Smith points out that this rule is based on Jesus' statement in Matthew 7:12. But the last part of the verse was left out of the rule. The NLT gives the last part of the verse as "This is a summary of all that is taught in the law and the prophets." Mr. Smith then shows several Old Testament laws that clearly show us how to apply the golden rule in specific situations. So, although both ancient Israel and Judah and our modern society discarded the golden rule, we need to apply it in our daily lives.

Gary Smith

United Church of God Pastor

Gary Smith was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, but spent most of his youth in the Pasadena, California area. He graduated from Ambassador College in 1976 and he and his wife, Liz, moved to Peoria, Illinois. For the next six years he worked as a nursing home administrator in Illinois, Ohio, and Texas.
In 1982, he and Liz began to serve in the full-time ministry. Since that time, they have served in a number of congregations in the Midwest.
Gary and Liz now pastor in Houston, Texas near their two children and grandson.