Knowing God's Love, How Should We Act Toward Others? Matthew 5:34-48

  Matthew 5:43–48 (ESV)  

"You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."  

 God’s Amazing Love  

This passage reveals the extraordinary nature of God's love. Unlike human love, which often depends on conditions and personal benefit, God's love is universal and unconditional. He blesses both the righteous and the unrighteous, offering kindness even to those who oppose Him. This demonstrates that God's love is not based on merit but on His gracious character. Jesus calls us to reflect this divine love by loving our enemies and praying for those who persecute us.  

 How We Should Act Toward Others  - 4 Points

1. Love Unconditionally – We are called to love not only our friends and family but also those who mistreat or oppose us.  

2. Pray for Our Enemies – Instead of seeking revenge, we should pray for their well-being and spiritual transformation.  

3. Show Kindness Without Partiality – Just as God provides for all people, we should extend kindness to everyone, regardless of how they treat us.  

4. Strive for Godly Perfection – Jesus calls us to a higher standard, reflecting God's perfect love in how we treat others.  

By loving even our enemies, we display the transformative power of God's love, becoming true children of our Heavenly Father.

More: Lesson 6 - God's Love of Justice