Reflecting on Jesus’ Radical Call to Unconditional Love
Introduction: The Challenge of Loving Enemies
It’s one thing to love our friends and family, but when Jesus tells us, “Love your enemies and do good to those who hate you” (see Luke 6:27-36, Matthew 5:44), it can sound downright impossible. This teaching is often called radical for a reason—it goes against our instincts and what most of the world expects. Yet, it’s at the heart of what it means to follow Jesus. Let’s explore what this teaching means for us today and how we can live it out, even in small, everyday ways.
What Does ‘Love Your Enemies’ Mean?
When Jesus speaks of love here, he’s not talking about warm, fuzzy feelings or simply tolerating someone. The word often used is “agape,” which means unconditional love. Agape is a choice—to seek the good of another, even if they don’t deserve it, even if they’ve hurt us. It’s active, not passive. Jesus calls us to do good, to bless, and even pray for those who mistreat us. This goes far beyond just ignoring or putting up with someone. It’s about being kind in action, not just in words or thoughts.
Reflecting God’s Nature
Why would Jesus ask us to do something so hard? Because, as he explains, this is how God treats us. God is merciful, showing kindness to the ungrateful and the wicked. When we love our enemies, we reflect God’s own heart—a God who gives rain and sunshine to everyone, no matter how they’ve acted. We become, in a sense, children who resemble our heavenly Father.
Transformation vs. Retaliation
Most of us want to strike back when we’re wronged or at least hold a grudge. But Jesus invites us to break that cycle. Instead of retaliation, he points us toward transformation—turning hate into healing, bitterness into blessing. When we choose mercy, we not only change our own hearts but can even soften the hearts of those who oppose us. Loving our enemies is a powerful way to bring light into the world’s darkness.
Not Condoning Harm
Loving your enemy doesn’t mean pretending that hurtful actions are okay or allowing abuse to continue. There are times to set healthy boundaries and protect ourselves or others. Jesus’ teaching is about our attitude and actions, not about approving wrongdoing. We can wish the best for someone’s soul and hope for their change, even while standing up for justice and safety.
Practical Ways to Love Enemies
· Shift Your Perspective: Try to see your enemy as a fellow human, with struggles and pain of their own. Sometimes, understanding where someone is coming from can soften our anger.
· Pray for Them: It might feel awkward at first, but praying for those who have hurt us can bring unexpected peace and even change our hearts toward them.
· Practice Patience and Kindness: Respond with a calm word or a gentle action instead of snapping back. Small acts of kindness can break down walls.
· Forgiveness: Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting or excusing, but it’s a step toward freeing ourselves from resentment and opening the door to healing.
Historical Context: A New Way of Loving
In Jesus’ time, Jewish teachings emphasized loving your neighbor—your own people—but left enemies outside that circle. Some thought “neighbor” meant just those who liked or looked like you. Jesus turned that idea upside down. He called his followers to a higher standard—not just to care for those who are easy to love, but to show grace and holiness by loving even those who oppose us. In a world that values winning, power, and prosperity, Jesus points instead to the deeper blessing of a transformed heart.
Conclusion: The Rewards of Radical Love
Loving our enemies isn’t easy, and it often doesn’t lead to quick rewards or worldly success. But Jesus promises something greater—a heart that’s more like God’s, a life that brings peace instead of conflict, and a community built on mercy and forgiveness. When we choose to love radically, we help heal the world, one small act at a time. It’s a journey, and it starts with a single choice to do good, even when it’s hard.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
afrancinegreen.com 