Guiding Question

How can we love someone who has deeply hurt us without ignoring the wrong they have done?

Lesson Focus

Followers of Christ demonstrate God's love by extending grace even to those who oppose them.

Loving our enemies may be one of the hardest commands Jesus ever gave. It doesn't mean pretending the pain never happened. It doesn't mean ignoring justice or removing healthy boundaries. It means choosing to respond as Christ responded. Instead of allowing hatred to shape our hearts, we allow God's love to transform them. When we do, we not only reflect the character of Christ, but we also begin experiencing the freedom that comes from releasing bitterness and trusting God with justice.

I've got three points to make.

Point One: Love Beyond the ...