Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8200 The character of the believer » 8292 love » 8301 love, and enemies
God loves even those who oppose him and believers must follow his example in loving their enemies.
God's love for sinners
Isaiah 53:6; John 3:16; 2 Peter 3:9 See also Genesis 18:32; Lamentations 3:33; Ezekiel 18:23; Matthew 5:45; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:32; 2 Corinthians 5:19; 1 John 4:9-10
The example of Jesus Christ
Matthew 23:37 pp Luke 13:34 1 Peter 3:18 See also Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 20:28 pp Mark 10:45; Luke 23:34; Romans 5:6; 2 Corinthians 5:14; Corinthians 8:9; Hebrews 13:12; 1 Peter 2:21,24; 1 John 2:2
God's people must love their enemies
Leviticus 19:18; Luke 6:35-36 See also Exodus 23:4; Proverbs 24:17; Proverbs 25:21; Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:27; Colossians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 2 Timothy 2:25; 1 Peter 3:9
Examples of love for enemies
Genesis 50:20-21 Joseph; Numbers 12:13; 1 Samuel 24:17; Samuel 26:21; 2 Samuel 19:23; 2 Kings 6:22 the king of Israel; Acts 7:60 Stephen; Acts 9:17 Ananias; 1 Corinthians 4:12
See also
2339 Christ, example of 5875 hatred 6652 forgiveness 8727 enemies
