Turning the other cheek

Second Mile ServiceMatt 5:38-42; Rom 12:14-21

Guidelines: Matt 5:38-42

• Don’t take it too literally.

• These instructions are for disciples, not governments or nations.

Background: Old Testament

• To deter violence (Exo 21:22-25; Lev 24:19-21; Deut 19:15-21)

• To make one reflect

• To emphasize justice equality

Pharisees Perversion: Retribution

• They changed “permission” into a positive command.

• They took the Law into their own hands.

Jesus’ Teaching: Matt 5:38-42

• Jesus is giving laws to regulate personal relationships.

• Jesus is addressing one’s attitude toward self.

Jesus’ Teaching: Matt 5:38-42

1. No excuses

2. Self-examination

3. Misery traced to self-love

4. See self in the light of Jesus Phil 2:5-7; John 12:49; 14:10; 1 Pet 2:23; Rom 8:29

Summary: Matt 5:38-42

• Do more than what is expected (5:40-42)

• Take no retaliation (5:38-39) – Proverbs 20:22 Do not say, "I will repay evil";

Wait for the Lord, and He will save you.

Second Mile ServiceMatt 5:38-42; Rom 12:14-21

Theme: Second Mile Service

• Matthew 5:39-42 - But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40 If anyone wants to sue you & take your shirt, let him have your coat also. 41 Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. 42 Give to him who asks of you, & do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.

Turning the other cheek

Matthew 5:39• Jesus: “Overcome the urge to retaliate”

• God: He will repay (Rom 12:19; Deut 32:35)

• Paul: insulted in the church (1 Cor 4:1-5)

• Paul: insulted by governments (Acts 16:37)

• Jesus: insulted by the Jews (John 18:22-23)

Giving the shirt and coat

Matthew 5:40• Jesus: “Don’t always demand your rights”

• Law: Prohibited taking coat (Exo 22:25-27)

• God: He is aware; He will be gracious

Going the second mile

Matthew 5:41• Jesus: “Don’t resent your government”

• You: Go the 2nd mile (1 Pet 2:13-15, 18-19)

Giving & Lending

Matthew 5:42• Jesus: “Lighten your grip on your stuff”

• Jesus: “This is how you act in hard times” (James 1:27; 2:14-17; 1 John 3:17-18)