Barclay Newman, a translator on the teams for both the Good News Bible and the Contemporary English Version, translated passages of the New Testament into English and published them in 2014, “in a publication brief enough to be non-threatening, yet long enough to be taken seriously, and interesting enough to appeal to believers and un-believers alike.” The following is the translation of Matthew 5:43-48:

From ancient times, it’s been said: “Love friends. Hate enemies!”

But I tell you to love your enemies
       and pray for everyone who mistreats you.
That’s how to behave like children of your Father above,
       who provides rain and sunshine for everyone, good or evil.

Do you love only those who love you?
       Are you good only to your friends?
So what? Even the worst of people are good to their friends.

I tell you to always behave like children of your Father above!