Confessions of a Reluctant Catholic

Derf

Well-known member
We only have to love them as much as we love ourselves.
You are missing some scripture. Jesus also said to do good to those who hurt you, which is how you love even your enemies. He didn't require us to do good to ourselves first (it was assumed).
 

Idolater

Popetard
We were asked to deny ourselves, take up our cross. DUTY

$$ Mt 11:28
Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
$$ Mt 11:29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
$$ Mt 11:30
For my yoke [is] easy, and my burden is light.

"Yoke" here means duty.
 

Derf

Well-known member
We were asked to deny ourselves, take up our cross. DUTY
Since we're supposed to deny ourselves, it seems like it assumes we normally love ourselves. Duty means doing something even when we're uncomfortable (or in danger) doing it. discomfort in denying ourselves equates to loving ourselves normally. But even still, we are told that we save ourselves by denying ourselves. So a logical response of someone who loves himself will be to deny himself in order to save himself.
 

Idolater

Popetard
So I should expect the same for my neighbor.

You can objectively size up anyone you want. But you don't know anyone's heart. Also the diabolic << exist >>.

You old fool. I don't mean it in a bad way. But you're an old man, and you're foolish. Not wise.
 

Derf

Well-known member
So I should expect the same for my neighbor.
If you require love to enemies to be requited before you offer it, and your enemies oblige you, they are morally superior to you, a Christian. Yet as little Christs, we should be morally superior. Just like Jesus forgave His tormentors during their torments of Him.
 
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