One of Jesus’ most challenging comments
Matthew 5:38–42
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.
This is one of Jesus most challenging instructions to those who follow him. In fact, it shocks us to the core because it is so different to our intrenched sinful nature. When everyone is screaming “retaliate”, Jesus is whispering “do not resist”. Again this is stunning because retaliation seems just and natural but turning the other cheeks exemplifies love and is grounded in the faith stance that God is just.
Jesus could not be clearer in this message. He says the same thing five times. Let’s look at what he said:
turn to him the other also
This is the famous one. When I read this I think forward to the time when Jesus actually exemplified this when the high priest slapped him and the soldiers where preparing him for the cross. When someone injured you because of your love for God, it’s fitting to never retaliate physically, verbally or emotionally. Wow.
let him have your cloak as well.
A tunic is the inner garment. It’s like your shirt. Jesus says that if someone asks you for yours by force or when in need — just give it. But then he goes further. The cloak is the protective outer garment essential for long cold nights. It’s your tent, your sleeping bag and your pillow. Jesus says give this too.
And if anyone forces you to go one mile
The story goes that a Roman soldier at the time could demand a local to carry his equipment for a mile by law. Jesus says carry it double the distance. Once by law and twice in grace.
Give to the one who begs from you
A beggar is one who is in lack. Jesus said if someone in lack asks you for help — you should help them. The world is full of people in lack. But who do you personally know who has asked for your help?
do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.
I’ve heard the saying, “Never should a borrower or lender be.” Jesus says the opposite. Never should a lender NOT be. “Do not refuse…” if someone asks to borrow.
Yes, there is wisdom in the application of these five statements. Yes, there is the argument for responsibility and independence. But this is a heart sermon from Jesus. The question is how close are you and I to the heart of what our Jesus is leading us in to?
Application
1. How challenged are you by Jesus’ words? (1–10)? Why do you think that is?
2. How can you embody the heart of these five statements in your life this week. Pray and ask the Lord for a change in heart right now.
3. What wisdom should be applied to what Jesus is saying? Ask the Lord to instruct your mind.
4. Are you a giver yet? Or are you trapped by things and thoughts? As God to give you the wisdom to ‘live to give’ in your life journey.
