New Testament
Matthew 5:44
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But I tell you: love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you.
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But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
What Matthew 5:44 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus teaches a radical approach to dealing with enemies. Instead of seeking revenge or harboring hatred, He instructs His followers to love those who oppose them. This love is not just a feeling but is demonstrated through actions: blessing those who insult you, doing good for those who dislike you, and praying for those who mistreat you. This teaching challenges the common human instinct to retaliate and encourages a response rooted in compassion and kindness. By loving our enemies, we reflect God's character and show that we are different from the world. This command is a call to embody grace and mercy, even towards those who may not deserve it, highlighting the transformative power of love in overcoming animosity and fostering peace.
How to apply Matthew 5:44 to your life
To apply this teaching, actively seek ways to show kindness to those who may have wronged you. This could involve offering a compliment, helping them in a time of need, or simply praying for their well-being. Such actions can break the cycle of hostility and promote healing.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary · Matthew 5:44 Meaning
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Plain Meaning
Jesus gives four commands about how to treat people who are against you. Love them. Bless them when they curse you. Do good to them when they hate you. Pray for them when they mistreat and persecute you. Each command is something you actually do. No kind of hostility is left out — words, hatred, mistreatment, and persecution all get the same answer.
Read It in Context
Verse 43 quotes what the hearers had been taught: love your neighbor and hate your enemy. Verse 44 is Jesus's direct reply. The word "But" marks the contrast. He is not adjusting the old rule slightly — He is turning it around completely.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 5:44 mean?
Matthew 5:44 teaches that Jesus calls His followers to love their enemies and respond to hostility with kindness. Instead of seeking revenge, believers are encouraged to bless, do good, and pray for those who mistreat them.
What is the meaning of 'love your enemies' in Matthew 5:44?
'Love your enemies' means to show compassion and kindness to those who oppose or harm you. This love is active, demonstrated through actions like blessing them and praying for their well-being.
How can I apply Matthew 5:44 in my life?
To apply Matthew 5:44, look for opportunities to show kindness to those who have wronged you. This could mean offering help, saying something nice, or praying for their good.
What does 'bless those who curse you' mean in Matthew 5:44?
'Bless those who curse you' means to speak well of or wish good for those who insult or harm you. It encourages a response of kindness instead of retaliation.
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