Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Matthew 5:43-48

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Matthew 5:43-48

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Matthew 5:43-48 as a profound call to love within the covenant community and beyond, reflecting the character of our sovereign God. This passage reveals the radical nature of the kingdom inaugurated by Christ, where love extends even to enemies, mirroring God's indiscriminate grace. In the redemptive-historical framework, this teaching fulfills the Law and Prophets, as Christ embodies the perfect love that the Old Covenant anticipated and the New Covenant realizes. This love is not a human achievement but a reflection of God's sovereign grace at work in us, manifesting our adoption as His children.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the term 'teleios' (perfect) in verse 48 is significant, conveying the idea of completeness or maturity rather than flawlessness. This aligns with our Reformed understanding of sanctification, where believers grow in holiness by God's grace. The command to 'love your enemies' (ἀγαπᾶτε τοὺς ἐχθροὺς) uses the verb 'agapao,' emphasizing a self-giving love that reflects God's covenantal faithfulness. Our tradition emphasizes the received text's focus on God's initiative and transformative work in enabling such love.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike the Arminian tradition, which may emphasize human decision in loving others, we affirm that such love is a fruit of God's sovereign grace at work in us. While the Roman Catholic tradition might see this passage as part of meritorious works toward justification, we view it within the context of sanctification and the evidence of God's grace. These differences matter because they underscore our reliance on God's initiative rather than human effort.

Pastoral Application

Preaching this passage, we must urge our congregation to reflect on the transformative power of grace, which enables us to love as Christ loves. This is not a burdensome command but an invitation to participate in God's redemptive mission, assured that He equips us for it. We should encourage the flock to see their ability to love enemies as evidence of their adoption and sanctification, resting in the assurance that God is at work within them. The congregation would expect to hear that this radical love is not optional but essential, as it reflects the kingdom's values and God's sovereign work in His people.

Cross-References: Leviticus 19:18; Deuteronomy 7:7-8; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:19; Philippians 2:5-8

Doctrinal Connections: sovereign grace; covenant of grace; sanctification; total depravity (and its overcoming by grace); adoption as sons and daughters