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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: Thankyou, that answer seems to make sense to me. I'm wondering if in general, Christians agree with your opinion. Is there anyone else out there that would care to comment? Chusarcik |
Bible Answer: Yes, I agree that the command is for us to submit rather than demand justice. The OT prescriptions of "eye for eye, tooth for tooth" were to maintain social order, instead of promoting escalation, e.g. killing someone who insults your mother. Jesus, as usual, goes beyond the OT prescription, requiring that we address the contents of our hearts. Revenge starts in the heart as a desire for justice, but we err when we try to deliver justice ourselves instead of leaving that to God. Also, if we have no desire for justice for ourselves, we will never do anything that will provoke revenge by others. Ironically, to be peacemakers, we must work for justice, yet not for ourselves, but for others. Parable |