In the biblical narrative, the concepts of "enemies" and "foreigners" are significant, reflecting both the historical context of the Israelites and the theological themes of God's sovereignty, justice, and mercy. The terms are often intertwined, as foreign nations frequently posed threats to Israel, yet they also provided opportunities for demonstrating God's power and grace.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Israelites frequently encountered enemies and foreigners as they settled in the Promised Land and established their nation. The Canaanites, Philistines, Moabites, Ammonites, and other neighboring peoples are often depicted as adversaries. These groups sometimes waged war against Israel, leading to cycles of conflict and deliverance. For instance, Judges 3:12-14 recounts how the Israelites were oppressed by the Moabites until God raised up Ehud as a deliverer.

The Israelites were commanded to treat foreigners with justice and compassion, reflecting God's concern for all people. Leviticus 19:33-34 instructs, "When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God." This command underscores the importance of remembering their own history as foreigners in Egypt and acting with empathy and righteousness.

Enemies in the Psalms and Prophets

The Psalms frequently address the theme of enemies, often portraying them as those who oppose God's people and His purposes. Psalm 23:5 declares, "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." Here, the psalmist expresses confidence in God's provision and protection even amidst adversaries.

The prophets also speak to the role of foreign nations as instruments of God's judgment or as recipients of His future blessings. Isaiah 45:1-3 describes how God uses Cyrus, a foreign king, to accomplish His purposes for Israel. Conversely, the prophetic vision often includes the inclusion of foreigners in God's redemptive plan, as seen in Isaiah 56:6-7, which promises that foreigners who join themselves to the LORD will be welcomed into His house of prayer.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles further develop the understanding of enemies and foreigners. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount includes the radical command to love one's enemies: "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This teaching emphasizes the call to reflect God's perfect love and mercy, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries.

The early church grappled with the inclusion of Gentiles, or non-Jews, into the community of believers. Acts 10 recounts Peter's vision and subsequent encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion, which led to the realization that "God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right" (Acts 10:34-35). This pivotal moment affirmed the universality of the gospel and the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles.

Paul's epistles further articulate the theological implications of this inclusion. Ephesians 2:14-16 speaks of Christ as the one who "has made both groups one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility." Through His sacrifice, Jesus reconciles both Jews and Gentiles to God, creating one new humanity.

Theological Implications

The biblical treatment of enemies and foreigners reveals a complex interplay of justice, mercy, and divine sovereignty. While God often uses foreign nations as instruments of judgment, He also extends His grace to them, inviting all people into a covenant relationship. The call to love enemies and welcome foreigners challenges believers to embody God's character, reflecting His love and justice in a broken world.