by Kevin Mcdaniels

Created on: September 26, 2009

Why would Jesus not want us to hate people? Perhaps Jesus did not think that we should linger on the feelings and thoughts engendered by hatred. Perhaps Jesus thought our energies would be better spent loving and helping instead of hating and plotting against others. Jesus answered questions about love and whom we should love. This article will explore some of what Jesus said, and how it applies to our life today.

It is very important for a Christian to love their enemies. While most people would agree that it is a hard thing to do, it will give you peace of mind. Jesus commanded Christians to love, forgive and help strangers and enemies. Matthew 5:43 - 44 reads, "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," (NIV)

It can be harder to love some enemies than others. Leaders of foreign countries whom we have never met would be easier to love and pray for since they may have done no direct physical or emotional harm to us. Others we see every day, such as that person you have to work with, may be much harder to love. Does this mean that we don't have to love them? Absolutely not!

What then do I do about the person I see almost every day that I don't get along with? Leviticus 19:18 says, " Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." (NIV) Now I realize that this may raise the question of "Who is my neighbor?" That answer is easily taken care of since that same question was asked of Jesus.

An expert of the law at the time went to Jesus and asked, "Who is my neighbor." Jesus answered with the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). At the end of the story, Jesus asked, '"Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?" The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."' (Luke 10:36 & 37).

At the time Jesus told this parable, Samaritans were despised. The people Jesus preached to would equate a Samaritan with those as untouchable and the type of person one did not mingle with. Jesus showed how we should love others regardless of how we feel about them, or how they feel about us. It is important for us to realize that all humans are our neighbors. We need to show love to all mankind. Yes, it is hard to love everyone. Jesus told us to. If you are a Christian who believes the bible and follows the teachings of Jesus, then we are to take Him at His word. Love your enemy.

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