Introduction

One of the hardest commands Christ gives us is also one of the clearest: “Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). At first, this seems impossible. Yet for Christians, and especially in the witness of Saint Silouan the Athonite, the love of enemies is not optional—it is central to the Gospel.

The Teaching of Christ

From the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus overturns the world’s logic of revenge and retaliation. Where human nature seeks to strike back, Christ calls His followers to forgive, bless, and even love those who harm them. This radical love reveals the very heart of God, who “makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good” (Matthew 5:45).

The Witness of Saint Silouan

Saint Silouan taught that the love of enemies is the mark of a true Christian. He wrote:

“The man who does not love his enemies is not yet a Christian.”

For Silouan, this was not abstract. He himself endured years of spiritual trial, yet he continually prayed with tears for the whole world, even for those who rejected God. To love one’s enemies, he said, is to share in the merciful heart of Christ Himself.

Why It Matters Today

In our world, anger, division, and hatred often seem stronger than love. But Christ calls us to a higher way. To forgive those who wrong us breaks the cycle of violence and opens the door for healing. The Church Fathers teach that when we love our enemies, we reflect God’s own love, which embraces every human being without exception.

Living It Out

How can we begin to love our enemies?

• Pray for them — even if only with a simple “Lord, have mercy.”

• Refuse retaliation — let go of harsh words or the desire to get even.

• See Christ in all people — remembering that each person is made in God’s image.

• Ask for God’s grace — since such love is impossible by our own strength.

Conclusion

To love our enemies is not easy. But it is the way of the Cross and the path of true freedom. As Saint Silouan reminds us, only in forgiving and praying for all people do we begin to know the peace of Christ.

“The love of enemies is the defining nature of all who would claim the title Christian.” — Saint Silouan