John Connelly is a professor of history at the University of California at Berkeley, and the author of “From Enemy to Brother ...

As Jesus prepares his disciples for his departure, his command to "love one another" becomes a call to transform the world ...

He's not going to be defended by violence. Jesus is teaching us in the ultimate way about love. You don't just love those who love you; you love your enemies. You do good to those who hurt you.

The teaching from Jesus love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you reminds people that they should not hold onto feelings of anger and revenge.

When Jesus speaks, the major verb that is used in the gospel accounts is "to teach...." He teaches his disciples, he teaches in the synagogues, he teaches the crowds.... What is he teaching?

This shows Christians that they will be rewarded for their forgiveness. The teaching from Jesus love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you reminds people that they should not hold onto ...