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NASB | Matthew 5:39 "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. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 5:39 "But I say to you, do not resist an evil person [who insults you or violates your rights]; but whoever slaps you on the right cheek, turn the other toward him also [simply ignore insignificant insults or trivial losses and do not bother to retaliate--maintain your dignity, your self-respect, your poise]. [Luke 6:29, 30; Rom 12:17-21] |
Bible Question: How should we deal with 'difficult people' in our lives? Now a 'difficult person' can be anyone from a spouse, a relative, a fellow co-worker or even a fellow member of the Forum! :) Does this verse mean that we should give in (as Christians) to the people that seem to give us a hard time? Should we be 'door mats' to people? |
Bible Answer: Greetings Nolan! I have a little different take on this issue than most people (that I know.) I think Mt. 5:38-42 absolutely teaches that Christians are not to be people who "resist" evil people, in the sense of claiming our rights. The issue in this passage was how to respond when someone went beyond their legal limits in their relationship with you. The Law gave answers to each of the situations listed in Mt. 5:38-42, but Jesus said that we should not avail ourselves of their remedies, but go "the extra mile." I think the issue really revolves around our attitude when we are mistreated. Christians should not retaliate in kind. Christians should not be angry. Christians should not try to get even or gain the upper hand. Christians should simply "turn the other check" and then (Mt. 5:42-48) love our enemies. Most will view this as being a door mat! I prefer to see it as modeling ourselves after Christ, who suffered without saying a word. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |