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June 23, 2002 - Matthew 5:43-47

Open It

1. What underlying emotions and attitudes create cliques or cause divisions between groups of people?
2. What character quality more than any other says to the world, "This person is a Christian"?

Explore It

3. What ancient rule of life did Jesus challenge here? (5:43)
4. How did Jesus say we ought to treat our enemies? (5:44)
5. What did Jesus say we ought to do for those who persecute us? (5:44)
6. How does God treat evil and good people in the same way? (5:45)
7. How does God treat righteous and unrighteous people equally? (5:45)
8. What type of people did Jesus cite as loving those who love them? (5:46)
9. What does God think of us when we love those who love us? (5:46)

Get It

10. How is it possible for us to love our enemies?
11. What would have to happen in your heart in order for you to be able to pray for an enemy?
12. What might praying for your enemy change?
13. In what ways does a loving spirit demonstrate that we are God's people?

Apply It

14. What are some specific ways you can show love today to someone whom you dislike?
15. For which of your "enemies" will you pray every day this week?

God's purpose behind this law was an expression of mercy. The law was given to judges and said, in effect, "Make the punishment fit the crime." It was not a guide for personal revenge (Exodus 21:23-25; Leviticus 24:19-20; Deuteronomy 19:21). These laws were given to limit vengeance and help the court administer punishment that was neither too strict nor too lenient. Some people, however, were using this phrase to justify their vendettas against others. People still try to excuse their acts of revenge by saying, "I was just doing to him what he did to me."

To many Jews of Jesus' day, these statements were offensive. Any Messiah who would turn the other cheek was not the military leader they wanted to lead a revolt against Rome. Since they were under Roman oppression, they wanted retaliation against their enemies, whom they hated. But Jesus suggested a new, radical response to injustice: instead of demanding rights, give them up freely! According to Jesus, it is more important to give justice and mercy than to receive it.

By telling us not to retaliate, Jesus keeps us from taking the law into our own hands. By loving and praying for our enemies, we can overcome evil with good.

The Pharisees interpreted Leviticus 19:18 as teaching that they should love only those who love in return, and Psalm 139:19-22 and Psalm 140:9-11 as meaning that they should hate their enemies. But Jesus says we are to love our enemies. If you love your enemies and treat them well, you will truly show that Jesus is Lord of your life. This is possible only for those who give themselves fully to God, because only he can deliver people from natural selfishness. We must trust the Holy Spirit to help us show love to those for whom we may not feel love.

1. Taken from LESSONMaker © 1992-1996, NavPress Software, Used with permission.

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