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    In Context

    Why Does the Bible Say to Love Your Enemies — In Biblical Context

    Jesus commands enemy-love because it reflects God's own character — He sends rain on the just and unjust — and it overcomes evil with good.

    Quick Answer

    Jesus commands enemy-love because it reflects God's own character — He sends rain on the just and unjust — and it overcomes evil with good.

    "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you." — Matthew 5:44-45 (KJV)

    The Biblical Context

    Jesus' command to love enemies is among His most radical teachings: 'Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good' (Matthew 5:44-45). This love is not sentimental affection but deliberate, sacrificial goodwill. Paul expands: 'If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good' (Romans 12:20-21). Jesus practiced what He preached, praying for His executioners: 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do' (Luke 23:34). Stephen followed His example (Acts 7:60). Enemy-love distinguishes Christians from the world: 'If ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?' (Matthew 5:46).

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Matthew 5:44-45, sits inside Matthew 5. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you."
    — Matthew 5:44-45 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    Romans 12:20-21
    "If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink... Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
    Luke 23:34
    "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."

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