Bible Quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
““In the New Testament our enemies are those who harbour hostility against us, not those against whom we cherish hostility, for Jesus refuses to reckon with such a possibility. The Christian must treat his enemy as a brother, and requite his hostility with love. His behaviour must be determined not by the way others treat him, but by the treatment he himself receives from Jesus; it has only one source, and that is the will of Jesus.””
About This Quote
Source Theology: The Cost of Discipleship, 1937
Christian doctrine urges loving enemies as brothers, basing behavior on Jesus’ will rather than personal grievances.
In simple terms: Love enemies, follow Jesus’ example.
Key Takeaway
Practice unconditional love.
Themes
faith
forgiveness
ethics
Mood
inspirational
contemplative
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal conflict
- community building
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
theology
nonviolence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you apply this love daily?
- What obstacles arise in loving enemies?
A Different Perspective
Loving enemies can be socially challenging and misunderstood.
