In the Bible, God’s expectations for mankind are outlined through various teachings, commandments, and principles. Here are some core expectations based on biblical passages:
- Love and Worship God: The greatest commandment, according to Jesus, is to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). Worshiping and honoring God is central to a relationship with Him.
- Love Others: The Bible emphasizes the importance of loving others as we love ourselves (Mark 12:31). This includes acts of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.
- Obedience to God’s Commands: God desires that people live by His moral guidelines, as outlined in the Ten Commandments and the teachings of Jesus. This obedience is not only about rules but about aligning one’s life with God’s will (John 14:15).
- Seek Justice, Mercy, and Humility: Micah 6:8 summarizes what God requires of mankind: “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Justice, mercy, and humility are qualities that God values.
- Faith and Trust in God: God expects people to trust Him, even in difficult times. Faith is essential in the Christian life, as it shows reliance on God rather than oneself (Hebrews 11:6).
- Spread the Good News: Jesus commissioned His followers to share the gospel and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). Sharing the message of God’s love and salvation is a significant expectation for Christians.
- Repentance and Forgiveness: God calls people to repent of their sins and seek forgiveness. He is always ready to forgive those who come to Him sincerely (1 John 1:9).
- Live Righteously and Be Holy: God encourages His followers to live a life that reflects His holiness and righteousness (1 Peter 1:15-16). This involves turning away from sin and striving to reflect God’s character in our actions.
- Serve Others: Service and humility are important in the Bible. Jesus modeled servanthood and taught His disciples to serve others (Matthew 20:26-28).
- Be Stewards of Creation: God entrusted mankind with the care of the earth and all its creatures (Genesis 1:26-28). This stewardship involves respecting and responsibly managing the resources of the world.
These principles form a foundational guide to what God expects, aiming to foster a life that reflects love, justice, mercy, and a deep, personal relationship with Him.