There is a reason that Jesus put emphasis on this behavior. He knew that it was impossible for the average person to adapt to this behavior without assurance from Him. Without Him the law of nature would prevail. Self-preservation. Doing to others before they do it to us.

Jesus commands followers to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” to reflect the character of God. By doing so, they act as children of their Heavenly Father, who impartially provides sun and rain to both the righteous and unrighteous (Matthew 5:44-45).

Jesus counseled against the conventional wisdom of the day of loving one’s neighbors and hating one’s enemies. Instead, God the father gives His children the strength to love those who oppose them. That has not changed.

Today is no different than two thousand years ago. Those who profess to be Christians are still mandated to do the same. By the same token those who create havoc upon their neighbors are included. “Group think” (going along to get along) does not protect you.

Love Your Enemies (v. 44): This goes beyond just not wishing evil; it implies actively seeking to do good and praying for those who act against you.

Purpose of Prayer (v. 44): Praying for persecutors is presented as a means to let go of bitterness and allow God to work in the situation.

Impartiality of God (v. 45): God’s grace is universal, as He makes the sun rise and sends rain on both the evil/unjust and the good/just, setting a standard for unconditional love.

Context: These verses are part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus challenges traditional, narrow definitions of “neighbor” by contrasting them with the command to love everyone, even enemies.

It may feel impossible to love our enemies, but as we look to God for help, He’ll answer our prayers. He gives the courage to embrace this radical practice, for as Jesus said, “with God all things are possible” (19:26).