It is common for a person to visit a doctor for help with a particular subject. For example, if you have a sports-related injury, you might visit a sports medicine doctor. Luke is the author of the gospel that bears his name. One of the things that we know about Luke is that he was a doctor (see Colossians 4:14).
In his gospel, Dr. Luke provides us with guidance on how we should deal with our enemies. He presents six specific instructions from Jesus related to enemies. Jesus understood that most people treated those that they love well, but how should we treat those who mistreat us?
1. Luke 6:27 – Do good to them
2. Luke 6:28 – Pray for them
3. Luke 6:29 – Do not retaliate
4. Luke 6:30 – Give to them not expecting anything in return
5. Luke 6:31 – Treat them the way you want to be treated
6. Luke 23:34 – Forgive them
There are many examples of Christians who have responded in a similar manner to their enemies. One example is Corrie ten Boom, who prayed for the Nazis who had captured her. Boom once stated, “You never so touch the ocean of God’s love as when you forgive and love your enemies.”[1]
Try taking Dr. Luke’s guidance and react differently to your enemies than the world does. Are there people in your life who have mistreated you and need your love and compassion today?
Blessings,
Pastor Steven
[1] Martin Manser, ed., Christian Quotations (Martin Manser, 2016).