Up For Debate Sample

How do you respond to someone who’s hurt you or wronged you? How do you respond to someone you might even consider your “enemy”, someone you don’t agree with, or has different opinions than you?

Jesus said, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44).

The way of Jesus chooses love rather than hate.

This is probably Jesus’ most difficult teaching because it goes against everything we want and feel. What does this look like in real life?

Jesus gives a few examples:

Turn the other cheek: 

“If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also”. You choose love over hate when you give up your right to get even.

“If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too” (Matthew 6:40). You choose love over hate when you act in extreme generosity even when you don’t think the person deserves it.

“If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles” (Matthew 6:41). You choose love over hate when you serve your “enemy.”

Jesus doesn’t ask us to do anything he himself didn’t do.

You and I were once enemies of God. But, Jesus didn’t choose hate. Instead, he gave his life to rescue us from sin and restore our relationship with God.

Who is your enemy? Who is that person you can’t stand? The person who’s hurt you? And how can you choose love over hate today?