Matthew 5:45 Meaning and Explanation
“That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Loving enemies marks us as children of the Father, who gives sun and rain to all alike.
What Does Matthew 5:45 Mean?
Jesus gives the reason for loving our enemies: so that we may show ourselves true children of our heavenly Father. He points to God's own generosity -- sending sunshine and rain upon the evil and the good, the just and the unjust, without distinction.
God's kindness is not rationed according to merit; it falls freely on all. To love our enemies is to share in this generous, impartial goodness and to bear the family likeness of God. The character of the Father is revealed in his children when they love beyond what is deserved. By loving as God loves, we reflect his nature and show whose we truly are.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 5:45
What does Matthew 5:45 mean?
Loving enemies marks us as children of the Father, who gives sun and rain to all alike.