March 11, 2016
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:43-48
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Questions for Reflection:
Today we are going to look at the last “antithesis” teaching of Jesus. What is the teaching that Jesus confronts in this passage? How does he turn that teaching on its head? What’s your first thoughts when you read Jesus’ instruction? In the midst of election season, it is easy to see how we our culture operates. We help those who either have previously helped us or have the ability to perhaps help us in the future. Jesus says that we don’t just love and serve our friends, but we serve those who we may not care for.
In the midst of the passage, Matthew introduces a theological concept that is commonly known as common grace. Tim Keller notes that common grace “demonstrates a desire on God’s part to bestow certain blessings on all human beings, believer and non-believer alike.” How have you seen common grace play out around you? How comfortable are you with this idea?
The reason we can love our enemies as directed by Jesus is because we are all recipients of the grace of God. There is not a single one of us that is good enough or deserving. God, motivated by His love for us, gives grace to us and we are called to give that same grace to others.
What would are world look like if we decided to live this passage out in our lives? Enacting this principle can change the world. One man who strived to do so was Martin Luther King Jr. Listen to this excerpt from one of his sermons on the subject:
Who are your enemies? What is one practical step you can take to demonstrate God’s love to them this week?