Gr. baros, “weight,” “burden,” “heaviness.” The golden rule (Matt. 7:12) calls upon every follower of Christ to consider another’s problems as if they were his own. The application of this principle in personal relations, in the home, the community, the school, and the church, and on a national and international basis would solve the ills of the world. The grace of Christ alone makes it possible to apply this principle under all circumstances. See on Mat. 5:43-47.

 The law, or principle, that motivated Christ’s life was that of bearing other’s others’ burdens. Christ came to earth as man’s great burden bearer (see Isa. 53:6). The only formal “commandment” our Lord gave His disciples while on earth was to “love one another” (see John 13:34). For the sense in which this command was “new” see on John 13:34. Christ declared also that “all the law and the prophets”—all of God’s revealed will (see on Luke 24:44)—are based on love, love for God and one’s fellow men. To the Romans, Paul wrote that love fulfills the law (ch. 13:10). Thus, “the law of Christ” is the epitome of the Ten Commandments, for when we live out those laws, we truly love both God and man (see on Matt. 22:34-40). For further comment on Jesus’ teachings with respect to love for one’s fellow men see on Matt. 5:43, 44; Luke 10:30-37.