In this day and age a very prevalent doctrine and satanic conspiracy that is spreading throughout the new-age churches and in online forums is: “Since we are saved by faith in Christ alone, as stated in the famous John chapter 3, verse 16 and Ephesians chapter 2, verse 8 to 9; we are not required to come to genuine repentance of our sins, nor are we required to keep the commandments of God”. I would like to stress that this is a doctrine of devils being parroted by individuals who are not of genuine faith, and/or have a limited knowledge of scripture or that through the love of sin have deceived themselves and are now deceiving others.
James makes it clear: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” (James 2:26) We are to be disciples of Jesus Christ. We are to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and make him the centre of our lives. We are to be walking by every word that comes from the mouth of God. We are to vehemently seek God’s Word and Will. We are to fear God and keep His commandments, repenting of our sins. We are to be baptised with the laying of hands to receive the Holy Spirit. We are to love God with all our heart, with all our soul and with all our mind. We are to love others as we love ourselves. We are to give willingly, cheerfully, and freely. We are to be ready to forsake everything that we have, including our very family, for the sake of God.
And I think another issue is that people don't love themselves, which is certainly an impediment to loving others.
Love of oneself should take precedence over pride. Which is why there are many more commercials pushed with obese people now, oh so proud to flaunt it. But love of oneself should inspire one to better themselves.
I'm harsh and critical of myself, and to that extent I would say that I treat my neighbors better than myself...rather be safe than sorry. :)
But I do recognize that an imbalance there still isn't good. Moderation is still key.