What does the Bible say about praying for enemies?

Definition and Scope

In the biblical text, “enemies” are those who stand in opposition—whether personally, ideologically, or spiritually. Scripture regularly addresses interpersonal conflicts, adversarial relationships, and even violent persecution. Far from dismissing them, several biblical passages instruct believers to respond in mercy and compassion, specifically through prayer (Matthew 5:44). Praying for one’s enemies is markedly countercultural and is presented as an act of obedience reflecting divine compassion.

Old Testament Precedents

While explicit commands to pray for enemies are more directly stated in the New Testament, the Old Testament provides examples and principles that undergird such teaching:

1. Intercession and Compassion

– In Job’s life, we see that God restores his fortunes “when he prayed for his friends” (Job 42:10); though these friends acted in ways that caused Job harm and confusion, he ultimately interceded for them.

2. David’s Example

– David often faced opponents within and outside Israel. In Psalm 35:11–14, although accused unjustly, David laments how he “mourned” as though for a friend when his enemies suffered. While not phrased explicitly as “pray for your enemies,” David’s attitudes of sorrow, fasting, and seeking God’s help for them show a heart condition that anticipates the clearer teaching of the New Testament.

3. Exodus and Practical Kindness

– Exodus 23:4–5 instructs lending practical aid to one’s enemy—for example, returning a stray ox. Though it does not mention prayer, it demonstrates a principle of benevolence toward adversaries, laying groundwork for later commands to pray as a spiritual act of kindness.

New Testament Commands

With the teaching of Jesus, the call to pray for enemies takes on a prominent focus:

1. Jesus’ Direct Command

– In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). This instruction is unique among religious texts of the time because it elevates the notion of love and prayer beyond one’s community to those who actively oppose or harm.

2. Parallel in Luke’s Gospel

– Luke 6:27–28 similarly instructs: “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Prayer is positioned as part of the comprehensive response involving love, blessing, and doing good.

3. Apostolic Teachings

– The Apostle Paul exhorts believers: “Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse” (Romans 12:14). Though not using the word “pray,” the framework of blessing can readily encompass pleading with God on behalf of the offender (1 Timothy 2:1).

– Peter also encourages a similar theme: “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult; but with blessing…” (1 Peter 3:9), reinforcing the principle of returning kindness for hostility.

Jesus’ Own Example of Praying for Enemies

The Gospels record how Jesus prayed even in the face of severe opposition:

1. Prayer at the Cross

– At His crucifixion, with soldiers and crowds mocking, He interceded: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). This profound plea underscores a heart posture that recognizes the ignorance and spiritual need of those who were harming Him.

2. Stephen’s Parallel

– Following the pattern of his Lord, Stephen, as he was being stoned, prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60). This continuity of martyrdom prayer further highlights a key New Testament trait: seeking spiritual good for those who inflict harm.

Motivations for Praying for Enemies

Scripture provides several motivations to engage in prayer for persecutors and adversaries:

1. Imitating Divine Love

– Praying for adversaries emulates the mercy that God has shown. Matthew 5:45 connects the command to pray for enemies with reflecting the character of “your Father in heaven,” who provides rain and sun for both the righteous and the unrighteous.

2. Fostering Humility and Compassion

– Prayer softens the heart of the one who prays. Instead of maintaining bitterness, believers are encouraged to bring those emotions to God, seeking His will over personal vengeance (Romans 12:17–19).

3. Opportunity for Reconciliation and Witness

– In some cases, the fervent prayer for enemies can open doors for reconciliation or display the transformative power of forgiveness and compassion, thus bearing witness to the nature of divine grace.

4. Obedience to God’s Command

– Ultimately, prayer for one’s enemies is a direct act of obedience. It realigns the human heart with the broader purposes of God, as He desires repentance and restoration even for those in opposition (2 Peter 3:9).

Practical Ways to Pray for Enemies

Biblical teaching does not merely issue commands but invites practical outworking:

1. Asking God to Grant Repentance

– One can pray that God will soften hearts, leading adversaries to repentance. This is a request rooted in 2 Timothy 2:25, which speaks of God granting repentance leading to knowledge of the truth.

2. Seeking Their Good

– Petition God for their well-being (both physical and spiritual). This includes praying for success in what is right, healing in times of need, and liberation from destructive behaviors or beliefs.

3. Self-Examination Before God

– In prayer, ask God to reveal ways to respond in Christlike love and remain free from hatred or revenge. This aligns with Psalm 139:23–24, where the psalmist invites God to search and purify his heart.

4. Persevering with Patience

– Persist even when immediate changes are not visible (Colossians 4:2). Scripture encourages the believer to be faithful in prayer, trusting God’s timing and sovereignty.

Historical and Theological Context

During the early spread of the Gospel, persecution was common. Apostolic writings stressed the distinctive mark of Christian love. Early church history illustrates that many persecutors were later won over by the steadfast expressions of prayer and kindness from believers (e.g., the soldier who witnessed Polycarp’s martyrdom in the second century AD reportedly marveled at his prayerfulness). Such examples show that persistent prayer for foes had the potential for a tremendous spiritual impact.

Conclusion

In the biblical witness, praying for enemies stands out as a radical, transformative act that mirrors divine love. Whether gleaned from Old Testament precursors, Jesus’ direct commands, apostolic teachings, or historical accounts of believers faithfully interceding, the practice underscores a commitment to mercy, forgiveness, and the hope of reconciliation. Such prayer transforms both the individual offering prayers and, in some cases, the adversary. By choosing to pray for enemies, the faithful demonstrate an obedience that upholds the principles of compassion and holiness. As Scripture repeatedly affirms, this counterintuitive gesture reflects the heart of God, who seeks the redemption and renewal of all, even those who oppose us.