Loving the Undeserving (Forgiveness Part 1)

Text: Matthew 5:38–48

In a world where revenge is often glorified and unforgiveness is seen as justified, Jesus Christ calls His followers to a radically different lifestyle—one of extravagant love, even towards those who don’t deserve it. In Matthew 5:38–48, Jesus lays the foundation for what true Christian love looks like, especially in the face of offence and enmity. This message forms the first part of our series on Forgiveness, focusing on what it truly means to love the undeserving.

1. The Normal Human Reaction

Jesus begins His teaching by confronting a familiar mindset: "You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’" (Matthew 5:38, NKJV)

This law, known as lex talionis, was originally meant to set boundaries on retribution, preventing excessive punishment. But over time, it became a justification for personal vengeance. In essence, it echoed what most people still believe today: “If someone wrongs me, I must pay them back in equal measure.”

Similarly, in verse 43, Jesus exposes another common perspective: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’”

Loving friends and hating enemies is natural and logical to the carnal mind. Yet, this mindset is the opposite of God’s kingdom culture.

2. Jesus’ Radical Expectations

Jesus upends the status quo and introduces a new, higher way of living: "But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also." (Matthew 5:39, NKJV)

This isn’t weakness; it’s strength under control. Jesus is teaching us not to retaliate or allow bitterness to rule our hearts.

His list of expectations is both challenging and inspiring:

• Do not seek revenge.
  “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19)

• Go beyond what is asked.
  “And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.” (Matthew 5:41)

• Lend to those in need.
  “Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.” (Matthew 5:42)

• Love your enemies.
  “But I say to you, love your enemies...” (Matthew 5:44a)

• Bless those who curse you.
  “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:28)

• Do good to those who hate you.
  “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink…” (Romans 12:20)

• Pray for those who persecute you.
  “Pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44c)
  

These instructions are not theoretical—they reflect the life Jesus lived. On the cross, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (Luke 23:34). That’s love for the undeserving in action.

3. Why Should We Love the Undeserving?

A. Because That’s What God Does

“He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:45, NIV)

God is generous and merciful to all people, even those who dishonor Him. Psalm 103:10–14 says:

“He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities… For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.”

God extends mercy not because we deserve it, but because of who He is. If we claim to be His children, we must reflect that same character.

B. Because Loving Only the Lovable Has No Reward

“For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?” (Matthew 5:46)

Even unbelievers are kind to their friends. But Jesus calls us to a higher standard. Forgiveness and love for our enemies show the world that there is something supernatural about us. It is a mark of our transformation in Christ.

C. Because Love Is the Mark of Spiritual Maturity

Jesus concludes this powerful teaching with a bold statement:

“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)

The word “perfect” here means complete, mature, fully developed in character. One of the greatest signs of spiritual maturity is the ability to love those who are hard to love. Forgiveness is not weakness—it is godliness.

Conclusion: Choosing Love Over Retaliation

Forgiving those who hurt us and loving the undeserving is not easy. It requires divine help. But as we yield to the Holy Spirit and immerse ourselves in the Word, we grow in grace and strength to live as Jesus lived.

Ask yourself:

• Who am I struggling to forgive?

• How can I demonstrate God’s love to that person this week?
  

Let’s begin this journey of forgiveness by choosing love over vengeance, grace over judgment, and prayer over bitterness.

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

Nourish Your Spirit