The world opposes Jesus and the Truth of Scripture, living devoted to self, rather than devoted to God. “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a firend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” – James 4:4 One day, there will be no more death, but this side of heaven, death is an enemy.įriendship with the World is an Enemy of God “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.” – 1 Corinthians 15:26 Satan opposes God, God’s people and God’s plans. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8 Have you ever corrected someone (out of love) just to have them turn on you? Additionally, that verse specifically was not related to sharing the gospel, but was related to correction. I certainly have…however, I didn’t realize there was a specific verse about enemies related to being opposed because you told the truth. I’m sure you have experienced that in your own life. What did surprise me was the last verse about how we become enemies of others when we tell the truth. Death and friendship with the world are also enemies we face this side of heaven. Not surprisingly, Satan is an enemy and those who oppose the Truth that Jesus is the Savior of the world. More on that later! Who is an enemy according to the Bible?Īccording to the Bible, there are quite a few enemies. Interestingly, as I researched Bible verses about enemies, I was surprised that there were quite a few references to enemies that connected to people that you might have believed was an ally. The opposite of an enemy is someone who is an ally or supporter. When someone actively opposes you, they are actively resisting or refusing to comply. I wondered if the Bible dictionary would indicate something different, but it aligned with the same definition as google. When looking up the definition of an enemy, it clearly pointed to someone who is actively opposed or is hostile toward someone. Let’s see what God’s Word has to say about enemies! What does the Bible say about enemies? Both the Old Testament and the New Testament have much wisdom for us when navigating our enemies when we are in the midst of trouble. Enemies can often produce difficult times, but our God is always with us. My prayer is that God will open up your eyes to more discernment in your relationships and the world around you. And, many that did really surpise me as I reflected on my own relationships. Connect with her at her and on Twitter and Facebook.I can’t wait to share these “Bible verses about enemies” with you! As I did this topical study there were many verses that did not surprise me. She loves to encourage new writers and readers who have moved. Married to her literary muse, John, they have four children and eight grandchildren in North Carolina. She speaks to women’s groups such as Mothers of Preschoolers. Currently, she working on a sequel to her first novel and keeping up with her blog. Carol has penned 500 articles, and two books, Changing Zip Codes, and the award-winning debut novel, Lake Surrender, (inspired by her work with autistic students). But with Jesus, and the Holy Spirit our response should be to pray for those who wish us ill.Ĭarol Stratton is a novelist, reporter, and freelancer. With only the Old Testament with its rules and laws, David called on God to wipe out his enemies, often for survival. In the New Testament it reads, “The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah” ( Hebrews 8:8). But Jesus came to fulfill the law in a new covenant, first with the Jewish nation and then with the Gentiles. children of Your father in heaven.” In other words, obeying this commandment marks us as people related to God Almighty.ĭavid only knew the God of the Old Testament. And when we do, Matthew 5:45-48 says that we will be “. He didn’t suggest we like them or ignore them but through our prayers, we bring them to the throne of God and bless them. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” ( Matthew 5:43-44). Jesus himself told his followers to pray for his enemies. But if we want to walk in obedience to Jesus, we will pray for them. It’s natural to shy away from those who mean us harm. Or a competitive business with cutthroat methods to put you out of business. They can be a gossipy neighbor who wants to ruin your reputation. Merriam Webster Dictionary defines an enemy as, “One that is antagonistic to another, something harmful or deadly, or a hostile unit or force.” Enemies don’t have to be those out to kill us.
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