But I say unto you, 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;
Love of enemies is the summary of all I have taught: whoever brings himself to love those who hate him will naturally refuse revenge, endure wrongs patiently, and help the wretched. No one obeys the command to love his neighbor until he denies himself and values all men, even his persecutors, as God does. Believers must banish revenge from their minds entirely and bless their enemies, committing their cause to God's vengeance. This is hard, contrary to the flesh; but our weakness excuses nothing. Ask only what charity demands, and rely on the Spirit's power.
AI summary
The Jewish teachers corrupted God's law. He said love your neighbor; they twisted it to mean only their own nation and friends, then added what He never said: hate your enemy. I come as Peacemaker to teach you differently: love your enemies as I have loved you.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 5:43-48
Love enemies by outward act: feed the hungry enemy, give drink to the thirsty one. You may hate his actions and feel just anger against them, yet love his person with natural human affection and tenderness. When wicked men curse you, do not curse back; bless them instead, use kind words and mild speech to shame them or win them. Bless and curse not: let curses fit their mouths, blessings fit yours.
AI summary