Tenth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

God created humankind for humankind to know, love, serve God in this world and to be happy with God in the world to come. The implication is that there will be no worship of other gods besides God because other gods do not exist. God expects humankind to worship him with their whole heart, soul, mind and strength. This concern that is shown to God is expected to be reciprocated in the community of humankind. The general meaning of the Greek word agapē, as used in Mark 12:28-34, is good-will, affection, respect, benevolence, and concern for the welfare of the loved. Today, Christians have turned around to give to deities, shrines, images of animals, and even trees that stands in the forest this agapē that is due for God, and above all there is hatred between believers living together. This study adopts textual criticism and exegesis of Mark 12:28-34 as well as library research to unravel the intentions God expects from humankind towards himself and towards themselves. The aim of this study is to show why there is idol worship, double allegiance in worship of God, and hatred between believers in the world today, and to suggest that it is because there are few authentic Christians who understand the full meaning of the content of Mark 12:28-34. This study argues that the understanding of this passage will bring out true worship of God and harmonious relationship in various Christian families. This work can benefit all Christians and indeed all humankind.