A question about priorities, 12:28-34.
The third question introduces an almost “fresh” and “hopeful” moment in Jesus’ conversations with the Jews. The scribe perceived Jesus had answered “well” the previous questions. Matt. 22:35 says he came “testing” Jesus but it seems he only asked having seen what had happened. Perhaps this was an issue he studied himself and was thinking he might catch Jesus on this. “Which is the first commandment?” But this time, when Jesus again answered “well” this scribe complimented Him. And Jesus responded to him personally. This didn’t normally happen.
We also see that Jesus did not simply answer the question. He gave more to the man, giving both the first and second commandments. This was not part of a plan to correct the man. Jesus saw something in the man and built on his genuine spiritual interest. There was no argument: both agreed, the first is to love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. This answer was easy if you honestly studied the Torah. And apparently the scribe was an honest student.
How is it easy, that the first command is Deut. 6:4-5? First, consider the book of Deuteronomy, where Moses’ gave the law to Israel before entering the land. In Ch. 1-5 he reviewed their past history, including at Mt. Sinai and the giving of the Ten Commandments; and in Ch. 27-34 he previewed their future history. In between (Ch. 6-26) he gave them the Law of God for living and staying in the land. Ch. 12-26 contain “statutes and judgments.” But before those specifics there are six chapters (Dt. 6-11) that define Israel’s relationship with God. They are to love the God who has loved them first. The basis of Israel’s worship and daily life is that there is one God, Who has loved you and chosen you to be His treasure, so you are to love Him. It was never God’s intention that Israel’s obedience to His law be simply for the sake of the law. It was to be a response of love.
Look closer at Dt. 6:1: Now this is the commandment and these are the statutes and judgments. Commandment! Singular!! This word is always plural in Exodus and Leviticus. Many commandments. But now there is one commandment. Therefore you shall keep the commandment, the statutes, and the judgments which I command you today (Dt. 7:11). For this commandment which I command you today is not too mysterious for you, nor is it far off (Dt. 30:11). Joshua also noted this: But take careful heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul (Josh. 22:5). In other words, you might know this is the first commandment is you carefully read your Bible.
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