Biblical Answer

Understanding Jesus' Teaching on Loving Enemies

When Jesus taught his followers to "love your enemies," he was not suggesting a superficial or sentimental love. Rather, he was calling for a deep and profound love that is rooted in the character of God himself. This love is not based on the actions or behavior of the enemy, but rather on the nature of God, who loves his enemies and demonstrates that love by giving his own Son to die for them (Rom. 5:8).

The Scope of Love

Jesus' teaching on loving enemies is often misunderstood as being selective or conditional. However, Jesus is actually calling for an undiscriminating love that knows no bounds. This love is not limited to those who are friendly or favorable, but extends to those who are outside and oppose the community of God's people. In fact, Jesus' teaching on loving enemies is a rejection of the distinction between "friend" and "enemy." Instead, he calls for a love that is so great that it makes even the best of earthly loves, such as hatred, seem petty in comparison.

The Example of Christ

The example of Christ himself is a profound illustration of the concept of loving enemies. While he was being crucified, Jesus forgave his enemies, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). This act of forgiveness is a demonstration of the love of God, which is not limited to those who are favorable or friendly, but extends to those who are opposed to him. In this way, Jesus' teaching on loving enemies is not a call to be passive or weak, but rather a call to live out the character of God himself, who loves his enemies and demonstrates that love through the sacrifice of his Son.