In his book After You Believe, N.T. Wright shares this thought: “When you’re suddenly put to the test and don’t have time to think about how you’re coming across, your real nature will come out. That’s why character needs to go all the way through: Whatever fills you will spill out.” (p. 28).
This idea captures the heart of Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:38-48. In this section of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches that there is more than just surface-level obedience—beyond simply avoiding evil. He calls us to live with radical grace and love that reveals the heart of God. Loving our enemies isn’t just an ideal; it’s the evidence of a transformed heart, a life shaped by the character of the King.
The Call to Grace Over Retaliation
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person.” (Matthew 5:38-39)
The law of retribution—“an eye for an eye”—was meant to prevent personal revenge and promote justice. However, Jesus introduces a new way: the way of grace. Instead of seeking vengeance, He calls us to respond with patience, generosity, and love.
Consider His examples:
Turning the other cheek (v. 39) – In the ancient world, a slap was an insult more than a physical assault. Kingdom citizens are called to absorb the insult rather than retaliate.
Giving beyond what is required (v. 40) – The poor had little, yet Jesus tells them to give even their cloak if sued. This radical generosity defies worldly wisdom.
Going the extra mile (v. 41) – Under Roman law, Jews were required to carry a soldier’s pack for one mile. Jesus challenges them to double it—choosing service over resentment.
Giving generously (v. 42) – Even in hardship, we are to be open-handed, trusting God’s provision.
Paul echoes this in Romans 12:14-21, urging believers to overcome evil with good. True justice isn’t found in revenge, but in reflecting the goodness of God in a broken world.
The Call to Love Over Hate
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:43-44)
The Pharisees had twisted the law’s command to love their neighbors into permission to hate their enemies. But Jesus reveals the true intent of God’s heart: love is not limited by borders, race, or even morality. God sends rain on both the righteous and the wicked. His love extends to all—and ours must too.
What does loving an enemy look like?
Love actively (v. 44) – Show kindness to those who oppose you.
Pray for them (v. 44) – Intercede for those who mistreat you, asking for God’s mercy on their lives.
Reflect God’s character (v. 45) – As God’s children, we are called to mirror His indiscriminate grace.
This isn’t easy. It’s much simpler to ignore those who hurt us, to justify our distance by saying we don’t “hate” them. But love calls for more. It requires interaction, kindness, and a willingness to extend mercy even when it isn’t deserved.
The Call to Christlike Perfection
“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)
Jesus isn’t calling us to sinless perfection, but to completeness—to a maturity that reflects God’s character. True righteousness isn’t about checking the right religious boxes. It’s about a heart transformed by God’s love.
So where do we start?
Trust God for justice – We don’t have to seek revenge; we can trust Him to make things right.
Overcome evil with good – Through generosity, kindness, and forgiveness, we push back the darkness.
Love even when it’s hard – Because that’s what God has done for us.
The Challenge
This week, take a step toward radical grace:
Show compassion—make a meal for someone, volunteer, or donate to a charity.
Pray for someone who has wronged you.
Loving our enemies isn’t just about them—it’s about us. It’s about becoming the kind of people who reflect the heart of God. And when we do, we don’t just avoid sin—we become the light of the world.
May we be a people who overcome evil with good, not because it’s easy, but because it’s who we are in Christ.
