How does Jesus' response in Matthew 26:50 demonstrate love for His enemies? The verse in focus “Friend,” Jesus replied, “do what you came for.” Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested Him. (Matthew 26:50) Seeing Judas through the word “Friend” • The Greek term hetaire means companion, comrade—an affirming address, not an insult. • Jesus could have said “traitor,” yet He speaks a word that still invites relationship. • By calling Judas “friend” in the very act of betrayal, Jesus: – Refuses to strip Judas of dignity. – Leaves open the door of repentance (cf. Matthew 27:3–4, Judas’ later remorse). – Models the heart behind Matthew 5:44 “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”. Refusing retaliation, embracing submission • No anger, no curse—only calm surrender. • 1 Peter 2:23: “When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate… He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” • By accepting arrest, Jesus chooses the path that will secure salvation for the very ones who oppose Him (Romans 5:8–10). • Moments later He heals the servant’s severed ear (Luke 22:51)—active compassion amid hostility. • He orders Peter, “Put your sword back in its place” (Matthew 26:52), disarming violence on both sides. Love that fulfills earlier teaching • Luke 6:27 “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you” finds its living illustration here. • Jesus aligns perfectly with His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:43-45), proving His commands are not theory but practiced truth. • John 13:1 reminds us He “loved them to the end,” and that love extends even to the betrayer. Echoes throughout the passion narrative • Protective love: “If you are looking for Me, then let these men go” (John 18:8). • Intercessory love: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). • Substitutionary love: bearing the wrath deserved by enemies so they can become friends of God (Colossians 1:21-22). Practical lessons for us today • Address enemies with words that acknowledge their worth. • Choose restraint over retaliation; trust the Father’s justice. • Pursue acts of kindness that disarm hostility. • Remember: genuine love seeks the ultimate good—eternal redemption—even for those who wound us. |
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