Scripture Song of Matthew 5:44-45
“Love Your Enemies”
Commentary on Matthew 5:44-45
by Living Faith Fellowship
"Love your enemies." This is not merely a lofty ideal; it is a direct instruction from our Lord, which we are to obey (Luke 6:46). On the face of it, the command may seem impossible to fulfill. While we might try not to hate our enemies, no amount of effort will enable us to actually love those who have wronged us.
When Jesus told the disciples "Ye shall receive power" (Acts 1:8), He did not mean only the kind of power that was demonstrated when Peter raised the lame man to his feet. He also meant the kind of power that was demonstrated when Stephen was stoned. Following the Lord's example, Stephen died with these words on his lips: "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge" (Acts 7:60).
Such love for one's enemies is beyond human ability. The secret of living the life of Jesus Christ is that we are not limited to human ability. His Spirit living through us can obey and please the Father in all things, just as Jesus Himself did when He walked among us (John 8:29).
Commentary ©2011 Hebron Christian Fellowship. Unaltered text may be reproduced freely without financial gain.
Matthew 5:44-45
Verbatim KJV. Words or verses not included in song replaced with "..."
- .. 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...