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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: Does that really mean that as a Christian I can never defend myself or my family against abuse? Am I to let all kinds of evil actions happen and never denounce them or take a stand against them? |
Bible Answer: I cannot find the reference to this just now, however one of the other answers touched briefly on this point. The striking of the right cheek was not a physical blow, but was a very low and demeaning insult, which could have sent the "striker" to prison. So in this scripture, Jesus was not saying that you were to let someone physically strike you, but you were to bear insult without returning injury. |