Luke 6:27

But to those of you who will listen, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,

Study Bible

But to those of you who will listen
This phrase emphasizes the importance of receptivity and openness to Jesus' teachings. The Greek word for "listen" is "ἀκούω" (akouo), which implies not just hearing but understanding and heeding. In the historical context, Jesus was addressing a diverse audience, including His disciples and the broader crowd. This call to listen is a challenge to rise above the natural human inclination to ignore difficult teachings. It invites believers to be attentive and willing to embrace transformative truths.

I say
The authority of Jesus is underscored here. In the Greek, "λέγω" (lego) is used, which means to speak or declare. This is not merely a suggestion but a command from the Son of God. In the scriptural context, Jesus often prefaced His teachings with "I say" to assert His divine authority, distinguishing His words from those of the religious leaders of the time. This phrase invites believers to recognize the weight and significance of His instructions.

Love your enemies
The Greek word for "love" here is "ἀγαπάω" (agapao), which refers to a selfless, unconditional love that seeks the best for others, regardless of their actions towards us. This command was revolutionary in the historical context, where the prevailing norm was to love one's neighbor and hate one's enemy. Jesus calls His followers to a higher standard, reflecting God's love for humanity. This love is not based on emotions but is an act of will, a decision to reflect God's grace and mercy.

do good
The phrase "do good" comes from the Greek "καλῶς ποιεῖτε" (kalos poieite), which means to act honorably or beneficially. This instruction goes beyond passive love; it requires active engagement in positive actions towards those who oppose us. In the scriptural context, this reflects the teachings of the Old Testament, where acts of kindness and justice are central to righteous living. It challenges believers to be proactive in their love, mirroring the goodness of God.

to those who hate you
The Greek word for "hate" is "μισέω" (miseo), indicating a deep-seated animosity or hostility. Jesus acknowledges the reality of being hated, which His followers would experience, especially in the early church. Historically, Christians faced persecution and rejection, making this command particularly poignant. By instructing His followers to do good to those who hate them, Jesus calls for a radical departure from the natural human response of retaliation, urging believers to break the cycle of hatred with acts of love and kindness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, Jesus is delivering a sermon that includes radical teachings on love and forgiveness.

2. Disciples and Followers
The immediate audience of Jesus' teachings, representing those who are willing to listen and follow His commands.

3. Enemies
Those who oppose or act with hostility towards believers, whom Jesus instructs to love.

4. Haters
Individuals who harbor ill will or animosity, whom Jesus commands to be treated with kindness.

5. The Sermon on the Plain
The context in which this teaching is given, a collection of Jesus' teachings similar to the Sermon on the Mount.

Teaching Points

Radical Love
Jesus calls for a love that transcends natural inclinations, challenging believers to love even those who oppose them.

Active Goodness
The command to "do good" implies proactive kindness, not merely passive tolerance.

Listening and Obedience
The phrase "to those of you who will listen" highlights the importance of being receptive to Jesus' teachings and acting upon them.

Reflection of God's Character
Loving enemies reflects God's unconditional love and mercy, serving as a witness to His nature.

Transformative Power
Loving those who hate us can transform relationships and break cycles of hatred and revenge.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' command to love our enemies challenge our natural responses to hostility?

2. In what ways can we actively "do good" to those who hate us in our daily lives?

3. How does loving our enemies reflect the character of God, and why is this important for our witness as Christians?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate a heart that listens and obeys Jesus' radical teachings?

5. How do the teachings in Luke 6:27 connect with other scriptures, and what do they collectively reveal about the nature of Christian love?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 5:44
This verse parallels Luke 6:27, where Jesus also instructs to love enemies and pray for those who persecute you, emphasizing the consistency of this teaching.

Romans 12:20
Paul echoes Jesus' teaching by instructing believers to feed their enemies, highlighting the transformative power of love.

Proverbs 25:21-22
The Old Testament roots of this teaching, where showing kindness to enemies is encouraged, demonstrating the continuity of God's message.

1 Peter 3:9
Peter advises not to repay evil with evil but with blessing, reinforcing the call to respond to hostility with love.

1 John 4:7-8
This passage emphasizes that love is from God and those who love are born of God, providing a theological foundation for loving enemies.