Bible Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
“In the New Testament our enemies are those who harbor hostility against us, not those against whom we cherish hostility, for Jesus refuses to reckon with such a possibility.”
About This Quote
Source Theological Treatise: The Cost of Discipleship, 1937
True enemies are those who harbor hostility toward us, not those we despise; Jesus rejects reciprocating hatred.
In simple terms: Enemies are hostile toward us, not those we hate; Jesus rejects hatred.
Key Takeaway
Practice forgiveness over retaliation.
Themes
religion
ethics
forgiveness
enemy
spirituality
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal conflict
- interfaith dialogue
- social justice
- peacebuilding
Key Concepts
Christian theology
nonviolence
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you love your enemy?
- What limits forgiveness?
A Different Perspective
Forgiveness may be difficult when harm is severe.
