| Series | Living with the Romans |
|---|---|
| Theme | 1. At the time of Jesus - I taimi o Iesu |
| Colour | Lanu Auro |
Scripture Focus: Mataio 5:38-42
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you, don’t resist him who is evil; but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also. If anyone sues you to take away your coat, let him have your cloak also. Whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks you, and don’t turn away him who desires to borrow from you.
- Matthew 5:38-42 (WEB)
Study:
Jesus challenges the common practice of “retributive justice” – the idea that punishment should equal the crime. This was deeply ingrained in the Jewish legal system of the time, and even in Roman law. “An eye for an eye” aimed to limit revenge, preventing escalation; however, Jesus calls for a radical shift in perspective. He isn't advocating for passivity in the face of injustice. He’s calling for a response of selfless love, breaking the cycle of violence. He illustrates this with provocative examples: offering more than what is demanded, and demonstrating unexpected generosity. The “extra mile” wasn't about literal Roman law (which allowed soldiers to compel citizens to carry their equipment), but a metaphor for always exceeding expectations in kindness and forgiveness. In a society built on power and control, particularly under Roman rule, this was a revolutionary concept. Imagine the impact of consistently responding to aggression with grace. It disrupts the perpetrator’s expectations and offers a powerful witness to a different way of living – a way that mirrors God’s own unconditional love.
Application:
Today, we often operate on a principle of “getting even.” Social media amplifies this, fueling endless debates and retaliatory posts. Jesus’ teaching challenges this deeply ingrained instinct. It doesn’t mean we ignore injustice or allow abuse, but it calls us to respond differently. It’s about choosing to overcome evil with good, to respond with forgiveness and generosity even when it’s difficult. This can look like responding with patience to rude customer service, choosing to forgive a friend who has hurt you, or offering help to someone who has wronged you. This is about recognizing that everyone, even those who harm us, is made in God’s image and deserves our love and compassion. The “extra mile” is not simply about grand gestures, but the everyday choices to respond with grace and selflessness.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the idea of “an eye for an eye” manifest in our culture today?
- Can you think of a time when responding with kindness instead of retaliation diffused a difficult situation?
- What are some practical ways you can “go the extra mile” in your relationships this week?
- How does Jesus’ teaching on non-retaliation challenge our understanding of justice?
Prayer:
Loving God, forgive us for our tendency to seek revenge and to respond to hurt with more hurt. Help us to embrace your radical call to love our enemies and to “go the extra mile” in all our interactions. Fill us with your grace and compassion, so that we may be instruments of your peace in a world desperately in need of healing. Amen.
Tags: Matthew 5, Sermon on the Mount, forgiveness, non-retaliation, love your enemy, Romans, Jesus, grace, compassion, kindness, radical love, peace, justice