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THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” — Luke 6:35
Imagine a moment where you're faced with someone who has hurt you or treated you unfairly. Instead of responding with anger or revenge, this verse challenges you to rise above that. You're called to love these people, to do good for them, and to lend without expecting anything back. This isn't just a nice suggestion; it's a bold call to transform your relationships and your heart. When you choose to act this way, you tap into something profound—it's a reflection of the kindness that’s shown to everyone, even those who don’t deserve it. It’s a radical shift in how we see others and our place in the world, reminding you that true strength lies in love, even for those who may not appreciate it.
This book was written by Luke, a physician who became a follower of Jesus. He wanted to share the amazing stories of Jesus’ life and teachings with everyone, especially those who were considered outsiders. Luke’s perspective is unique because he emphasizes compassion and care for the marginalized. Including this specific detail about loving enemies showcases Luke’s passion for showing how radical Jesus' love was—it's not just for the 'good' people but stretches to everyone, even those who might seem unlovable.
When Luke wrote this, the world was a tough place with oppression and a lot of conflict between different groups. The Roman Empire was in control, and people were often treated unfairly. This was a time when societal norms encouraged revenge and division. By urging people to love their enemies, Luke was bringing a revolutionary idea into a culture that thrived on retaliation. This message was radical then, and it still challenges us today to rethink how we interact with those who hurt us.
This verse matters for you today because it speaks to the very real struggles you face—conflict, hurt, and those difficult relationships that can drain your spirit. It invites you to break the cycle of negativity by responding with love instead of anger. Imagine the power of choosing kindness in a world that often promotes hate. This isn’t just a lofty ideal; it’s a practical guide to transforming your life, your community, and even your world. By embodying this message, you can create change and inspire others to do the same.
This week, think about someone in your life who you find challenging or even hurtful. Instead of reacting negatively, try to show them kindness in a small way—maybe it’s a compliment, a helping hand, or simply letting go of a grudge. If lending is an option, consider offering support without expecting anything back. It could be as simple as sharing a meal or listening actively. These small actions can open up your heart and create a ripple effect of love and understanding in your life and the lives of others.
This verse is part of a larger teaching from Jesus, where he’s breaking down the usual ways people think about enemies and kindness. Before this moment, he’s been talking about how to love not just friends but also those who treat you poorly. This isn’t just a random statement; it’s a powerful conclusion to a series of lessons on living differently. Right after this verse, Jesus continues to explain that our actions define us, highlighting how our choices show what’s in our hearts. It’s a turning point in the chapter, showing that loving your enemies isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a way to connect deeply with the heart of God.
What would it look like for you to love someone you consider an enemy this week, and how might that change your perspective on them?
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But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.