Matthew 5:43

You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor' and 'Hate your enemy.'

Study Bible

You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'
You have heard
This phrase indicates that Jesus is addressing a common teaching or understanding among His audience. The Greek word for "heard" is ἀκούω (akouo), which implies not just hearing with the ears but understanding and internalizing a message. In the historical context, Jesus is speaking to a Jewish audience familiar with the oral traditions and teachings of the Pharisees and scribes. This phrase sets the stage for Jesus to contrast traditional interpretations with His deeper, more radical teaching.

that it was said
The phrase suggests a reliance on oral tradition rather than written Scripture. The Greek word for "said" is ῥέω (rheo), which means to speak or declare. This reflects the rabbinic tradition of interpreting the Torah, where teachings were passed down verbally. Jesus is about to challenge these interpretations, emphasizing His authority to provide the true meaning of the Law.

Love your neighbor
This command is rooted in Leviticus 19:18, where the Hebrew word for "love" is אָהַב (ahav), meaning to have affection or care for someone. The term "neighbor" in Hebrew is רֵעַ (rea), which traditionally referred to fellow Israelites. Jesus acknowledges this command but will expand its scope. In the historical context, loving one's neighbor was a well-accepted moral duty, but its application was often limited to one's immediate community.

and hate your enemy
This phrase is not a direct quotation from the Old Testament but reflects a common interpretation or addition by some Jewish teachers of the time. The Greek word for "hate" is μισέω (miseo), which means to detest or abhor. Historically, this reflects the human tendency to create in-groups and out-groups, often justifying animosity towards those outside one's community. Jesus challenges this notion, as it contradicts the broader biblical principle of love and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, delivering the Sermon on the Mount, a foundational teaching moment in His ministry.

2. The Audience
Primarily Jewish listeners familiar with the Old Testament Law and traditional teachings.

3. The Sermon on the Mount
A significant event where Jesus expounds on the Law, emphasizing the spirit rather than the letter.

4. The Pharisees and Scribes
Religious leaders of the time who often interpreted the Law in a way that Jesus challenges.

5. The Old Testament Law
The backdrop against which Jesus is teaching, specifically Leviticus 19:18, which commands love for one's neighbor.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Law's Intent
Jesus clarifies that the Law's intent was always about love, not just for neighbors but extending beyond to enemies.

Challenging Cultural Norms
The cultural norm of hating enemies is directly challenged by Jesus, calling for a radical love that mirrors God's love.

The Greek Word for Love
The word used for love here is "agapao," which denotes a selfless, sacrificial love that seeks the best for others, including enemies.

Reflecting God's Character
Loving enemies reflects God's character, who shows kindness to both the just and unjust.

Practical Love in Action
This teaching calls for practical steps in loving enemies, such as praying for them and seeking reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:43 challenge the traditional understanding of the Law as understood by His audience?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of loving our enemies in our daily interactions, especially in a world that often promotes division?

3. How does the command to love our enemies reflect the character of God, and how can we embody this in our relationships?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to show love to someone you consider an enemy or who has wronged you?

5. How do the teachings in Romans 12:20 and Proverbs 25:21-22 reinforce Jesus' message in Matthew 5:43, and how can these scriptures guide our actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:18
This verse commands love for one's neighbor, which Jesus references and expands upon.

Proverbs 25:21-22
Encourages kindness to enemies, aligning with Jesus' teaching to love enemies.

Romans 12:20
Paul reiterates the call to love and care for enemies, echoing Jesus' teaching.

Luke 6:27-28
A parallel passage where Jesus explicitly commands love for enemies and prayer for those who persecute.

1 John 4:20
Discusses the inconsistency of claiming to love God while hating a brother, reinforcing the call to love all.