Enmity means deep hatred, hostility, or conflict. The Bible uses this word to describe broken relationships—especially between people and God. Enmity comes from sin. But through Jesus, God offers peace and restoration.
Enmity Began in the Garden of Eden
The first mention of enmity is in the Garden of Eden, after Adam and Eve sinned.
“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” — Genesis 3:15 (NIV)
This verse shows that spiritual conflict started with the fall. Satan’s hatred toward mankind and Christ would lead to a battle—but Jesus would win in the end.
Sin Creates Enmity With God
Sin separates us from God and causes us to become His enemies. Enmity isn’t just a feeling; it’s a condition of the heart.
“The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.” — Romans 8:7 (NIV)
“Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.” — Isaiah 59:1–2 (NIV)
“For if while we were God’s enemies we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!” — Romans 5:10 (NIV)
Because of sin, we are born into a state of rebellion. But even while we were enemies, God reached out to save us.
Jesus Came to End the Enmity
Through Jesus, God made peace. Jesus tore down the wall that separated us from God and from each other.
“For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” — Ephesians 2:14 (NIV)
“And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.” — Colossians 1:20 (NIV)
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:1 (NIV)
These verses remind us that peace doesn’t come from trying harder. It comes from trusting Jesus, who removes the hostility between us and God.
Enmity Between People Is a Sign of the Flesh
When people walk in the flesh, enmity shows up in relationships. The Bible warns us about the works of the flesh, which include hatred, discord, and strife.
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy…” — Galatians 5:19–21 (NIV)
“If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen.” — 1 John 4:20 (NIV)
“Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him.” — 1 John 3:15 (NIV)
When people live in hate, it’s a warning sign. God’s Spirit brings peace, not strife.
Christians Are Called to End Enmity
As followers of Jesus, we are called to live in peace and love—even with enemies.
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” — Matthew 5:44 (NIV)
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” — Romans 12:17–18 (NIV)
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” — Hebrews 12:14 (NIV)
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9 (NIV)
Christians should not stir up conflict. Instead, we should be the first to forgive, the first to apologize, and the first to build bridges.
How Can We Overcome Enmity Today?
Enmity can show up in many forms—anger, jealousy, division, or coldness. But God gives us tools to fight it.
| Biblical Action | Scripture Reference & Verse |
|---|---|
| Love those who hurt you |
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.” — Luke 6:27 |
| Forgive quickly |
“Bear with each other and forgive one another... Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” — Colossians 3:13 |
| Let peace rule your heart |
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts... And be thankful.” — Colossians 3:15 |
| Don’t keep a record of wrongs |
“Love... keeps no record of wrongs.” — 1 Corinthians 13:5 |
| Be slow to anger |
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” — James 1:19 |
Why This Matters
Enmity is the root of broken homes, broken churches, and broken hearts. But God sent Jesus to destroy enmity. He didn’t wait for us to get it right. He made the first move.
“We love because he first loved us.” — 1 John 4:19 (NIV)
If God went that far to make peace with us, how can we not do the same with others?
