Can We Love Our Enemies Yet Destroy Them?
In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 7:2 contradicts Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:14, Proverbs 25:21, Luke 6:27, Romans 12:19, Proverbs 24:17 and Matthew 5:39. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In exploring the directives in Deuteronomy 7:2, we're faced with a powerful contrast when comparing it to other teachings in scripture. According to Moses, God directed the Israelites to engage in decisive battles against their enemies, sparing no room for alliances or leniency. This was emphasized as a way to prevent the Israelites from being led astray from their faith. The underlying message was about preserving spiritual purity by eliminating external threats.
Yet, as we journey to the New Testament, a seemingly opposing message surfaces. In Matthew 5:44, we're encouraged to "love your enemies" and pray for those who persecute you. This call to kindness and understanding contrasts sharply with the command to show no mercy. Similarly, Romans 12:14 urges followers to bless, not curse, their adversaries. Proverbs 25:21 advises offering food and drink to one's enemies, presenting a form of compassion rather than destruction.
Think of these differing instructions like a gardener tending to plants. In Deuteronomy, the approach is like uprooting harmful weeds to protect the garden. However, in Matthew and Romans, the method resembles enriching the soil around the weeds, hoping they may integrate beneficially into the ecosystem.
Further highlighting this paradox, Luke 6:27 encourages doing good to those who hate you, while Romans 12:19 advises against personal vengeance, leaving that to divine intervention. Proverbs 24:17 cautions against gloating over a fallen enemy. Finally, Matthew 5:39 suggests turning the other cheek instead of seeking retaliation, embodying forgiveness over conflict.
This divergence presents a compelling question: How do we reconcile these teachings? Is it possible to both protect oneself from negative influences while extending love and generosity to adversaries? Reflecting on these scriptures challenges us to ponder the balance between justice and mercy in our interactions with others.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Deuteronomy 7:2 | And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them: |
| 2. | Matthew 5:44 | 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; |
| 3. | Romans 12:14 | Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. |
| 4. | Proverbs 25:21 | If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: |
| 5. | Luke 6:27 | But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, |
| 6. | Romans 12:19 | Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. |
| 7. | Proverbs 24:17 | Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: |
| 8. | Matthew 5:39 | But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. |