Introduction

A. Of all the teachings of Jesus, it may be that there is none more difficult than this one: “Love you enemies.”

B. Jesus defines my enemy as one who hates me, curses me, spitefully uses me, and persecutes me.

C. This teaching of Jesus challenges our level of commitment to Him as much as any other. Are you willing to follow Him this far?

Discussion

I. Why should I love my enemies?

A. I should love my enemies because God loved me when I was His enemy (Romans 5:6-10).

B. I should love my enemies because I am to seek God’s righteousness (Matthew 6:33; 5:20,45-48).

C. I should love my enemies because it does me no good to hate them (Matthew 5:46; Galatians 5:20).

II. How can I love my enemy?

A. I can love him by praying for him (Matthew 5:44; cf. Romans 10:1; Jeremiah 29:7).

B. I can love him by forgiving him (Luke 6:37).

C. I can love him by showing him kindness (Romans 12:21).

D. I can love him by going further than he demands (Matthew 5:40-41).

Conclusion

A. Jesus taught that our treatment of others will play a significant role in the way that we are treated (Luke 6:37-38; Matthew 7:1-2).

B. Very often the most disarming weapon we possess is kindness, which is perhaps why Jesus commanded His subjects to surprise the enemy with an attack of love.