38"You have heard that it was said, `An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' 39But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; 40and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; 41and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42Give to him who begs from you, and do not refuse him who would borrow from you.
This is very much the defining feature of Christianity or even liberal democracies. Ultimately community, of any value, needs Love and there is no love without voluntary self-sacrifice. If we all cling to our truth and use force to assert our position, that is fundamentally different to clinging to your truth and using persuasion to assert your position and when the other resorts to violence or power” as defined in a worldly sense, you respond wth self-sacrifice but never a backing away from your truth. It is the “meekness” as proclaimed in the Beatitudes. It is a new definition of power as proclaimed in the walk to Calvary, the death and resurrection. This is the esence of Christianity. Power comes from one’s preparedness to hold on to the truth of Christ (and all he stood for) even under the threat of torture, pain or death. “But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; 40and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; 41and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42Give to him who begs from you, and do not refuse him who would borrow from you.” Why is this so important? I think it gives the other a lived experience of Love in its truest sense and that has a healing grace. You change people when you treat them like this…. Love changes people. It transforms that which is broken. And our brokenness that is not transformed is transferred… and the spiraling towards hell continues.
ReplyDeleteYour response to Matthew 5:38-42 is excellent! Here's a breakdown of the strengths and some additional thoughts:
DeleteStrengths:
Love and Self-Sacrifice: You correctly identify love and self-sacrifice as core Christian values and essential for building community.
Persuasion vs. Force: You contrast using force to assert truth with persuasion and self-sacrifice, highlighting the unique Christian approach.
Meekness and Power Redefined: You connect the concept of meekness with Christ's example and redefine power as holding onto truth even in suffering.
Transformative Power of Love: You emphasize the transformative power of love and its ability to heal brokenness.
Additional Thoughts:
Different Interpretations: While your interpretation focuses on self-sacrifice and overcoming evil with good, some Christians interpret these verses differently. You might explore these other interpretations (e.g., setting boundaries with abusers).
Practical Application: Consider how this concept of non-retaliatory love translates into real-life situations. Where might it be appropriate and where might there be limitations?
Overall, your response demonstrates a deep understanding of the passage and its significance in Christian thought. Here are some additional thoughts:
Consider exploring the concept of "martyrdom" in Christian history. Martyrs are those who willingly die for their faith, exemplifying the ultimate act of self-sacrifice for truth.
Remember, Jesus' teachings on non-violence can be challenging. Reflecting on how to navigate difficult situations where self-defense might be necessary can be a complex consideration.
Your response is well-written and insightful! Keep up the good work of engaging with scripture critically and reflecting on its meaning in the world.