Why Does the Bible Say to Love Your Enemies — Meaning Explained

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).