Love Your Enemies - MSQ
Part of Red Letter Living
May 14, 2023

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Love Your Enemies - Message Study Questions

Message Summary

In Matthew 5:33-48, Jesus speaks about oaths, revenge, and enemies. Jesus demands integrity, yes should be yes and no, no backed up by action not deceptive oaths. Justice allows for retaliation, but Jesus went beyond the law to a higher righteousness by abolishing retaliation altogether. “For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 1:13). Believers are commanded to leave the judgment up to God. That means trusting that God will make things right. We need to hold on to our faith in order to let things go. Focus on the treasures of heaven diminishes our desire for material possessions and encourages us to share with others. However, Jesus’ statement presupposes that the person who asks for help has a genuine need. Pray and give as the Holy Spirit leads. Forgiveness is one of the most difficult spiritual practices for believers. Prayer for one’s enemies may seem unnatural, but in the Kingdom way, it is not only possible through the power of the Holy Spirit, but expected.

  1. How do you determine when someone is telling the truth?

  2. What usually happens when people repay evil for evil?

Consider This

Do what is right by not repaying evil for evil. Break the cycle. Do what is right and doing what is right may be the hard thing, but it’s the right thing. Hold on to your faith so you will be able to let things go. God will make things right.

  1. What reasons can you think of why making oaths is not a good idea?

  2. What might cause someone to doubt you to the point they’d want you to make an oath to “prove” your intentions? So then, what is the broader principle?

  3. Why do you think revenge appeals to so many people?

  4. Jesus said, “Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matt. 5:39). This principle of non retaliation characterizes followers of Jesus. However, is self defense or defending others with force if necessary ever warranted?

  5. Consider:

    • John 2:14-16
    • Psalm 82:3-4
    • Luke 3:14, 22:36-38
    • Matthew 26:52.

  6. Do you think it is possible to love our enemies? How?

  7. What did Jesus say to do when we are persecuted, according to Matthew 5:44? How did Jesus handle persecution according to 1 Peter 2:23?

  8. There are two reasons why we don’t want to pray for our enemies.
    First, we dwell on anger because we get satisfaction from it.
    Second, we justify our anger, thinking they deserve punishment.

  9. Consider James 1:19-20 and Romans 12:17-21 and list the principles and applications you find concerning anger there.

  10. What Spiritual advice would you give to someone struggling with an enemy in his or her life?

  11. How can we possibly be perfect as God is perfect? Since we can’t, what hope do we have?

Moving Forward – Application

  1. This week, what can you do to show others that you keep your word?

  2. Is there some promise that you’ve made that you could fulfill this week?

  3. Is there someone you need to forgive this week? What act of kindness or reconciliation could you do to settle things between you and that person? Will you do it this week?

  4. How can you demonstrate love for someone you don’t like—today?

  5. Name some enemies for whom you will pray this week.