Jesus commands us to love not just our neighbors, but our enemies—a radical departure from the world’s idea of fairness. This kind of love reflects the perfect love of God, who extends grace and mercy to all, regardless of merit. Loving our enemies means praying for those who hurt us, showing kindness in return for hostility, and rising above retaliation. Jesus sets a new standard of love, one that challenges us to reflect God’s heart in every relationship, proving we are His children by loving like He does. ~Matthew 5:43-48~

Big Idea:

• The test of love is how we show it to those who don't deserve it.
• Loving our enemy gives an opportunity grace.

Reference Scripture:

43-44: Levetiecus 19 “You shall love your neighbor” Yet some teachers of the day added an opposite “hate your enemy”.
45: “This is the day of free grace” This is an example of loving your enemies and blessing them if you can.
46-47: We should live differently because we are different. We are renewed, repentant and redeemed by Jesus. We have power through Christ. We have the Spirit of God dwelling within us.
48: If you want to live by the law only, then be perfect in it, if not then we have grace through Jesus.

Conclusion:

The test of love is how we show it to those who don't deserve it.
Loving your enemy is hard, 1 Corinthians 13 kind of love.
Hard or not, this is something we have to do.

Call to Action:

Pray for the people in your life that you don't want to love.