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An Expression of Love that Catches the Attention of a Watching World-Love for Enemies

February 17th, 2012

JOHN SHIRK – From Luke 6, verses 27 and 28.

Jesus said, “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”

This week, we have been looking at various expressions of love that capture the attention of a watching world-Sacrifice, Service, and Christian unity. Love for enemies is yet another powerful expression of God’s love, shining as a testimony that the love of Jesus is extraordinary. Jesus freely admitted that just about anybody can love those who love us back.  But what about those who hate us?  What about our enemies? This is perhaps the hardest situation to express love to someone. Yet, the heart of God is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.  So, when we are kind to the ungrateful and wicked, we are reflecting the love of Jesus. From the cross, He prayed about His persecutors, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Love for enemies stops the cycle of vengeance and starts a pattern of goodwill. This expression of love overcomes evil with good. It is never easy, but it is rewarding, according to Jesus.

Love for our enemies is a vital sign of a changed life in the Year of Transformation.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com




  1. Jonathan charles
    February 19th, 2012 at 21:56 | #1

    I wonder if that would go out to ppl who r ready for a divorce. I stinks cause they seemed so happy together and it has to come to this. Y lord?

  2. John Artley
    February 28th, 2012 at 17:23 | #2

    Love you guys ,have you guys on almost 24/7 and my son has his radio tuned to you as well and he sings along to alot of the songs …he’s 6

  3. Bill Staffieri
    February 29th, 2012 at 22:00 | #3

    A good and challenging word. I have always liked what Francis Chan said, ” To love the person right in front of you, such as the check out clerk who is not going fast enough and you are in a hurry. Maybe it is the person who wrote the editorial you are reading. I guess if the church could this with each other, yes as in denominations then maybe we can learn to love our enemies other than those who should be our brothers and sisters. Keep up the good words, we need encouraged and challenged daily.

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