Bible Verses to Explore: Luke 23:34
Today we will look at the third topic in our series about Jesus’ thoughts. We will explore what Jesus thought about his enemies.
In Luke 23:34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” What amazing grace! What amazing forgiveness! Here was a group of people who were in the process of executing Jesus by crucifixion. Did Jesus hate them? No. Did He curse them? No. Did He want bad things to happen to them? No
When Jesus thought about His enemies it was to pray that God would show them His mercy and grace. Jesus’ thoughts for His enemies included a prayer for their forgiveness for the evil they had done to
Him.
Jesus wants us to think about our enemies in the same way. Who is our enemy? Any enemy can be someone who hates us and wants to do us harm. An enemy can also be someone who simply thinks differently that we do. either way, Jesus has commanded us to love and pray for them.
I hope you will follow Jesus’ example and obey His instructions in Luke 6:27 & 28 – “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you,” asking God to show them His grace and mercy by forgiving them of their sins.
Will you pray with me?
Heavenly Father, give us the courage, love, and grace we need to love and pray for our enemies like Jesus did. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thanks for joining me for this series. Remember to download the free Inductive Bible Study Guide and come back next week for the fourth part of our series on Jesus’ thoughts.
God bless!
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