Should you not resist an evil person? I. Introduction to the Question The directive “should you not resist an evil person?” arises primarily from Matthew 5:38–39, where Jesus states, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.” This command can be perplexing at first glance, raising questions about self-defense, the place of justice, and the role of love and forgiveness. In order to arrive at a comprehensive understanding, it is necessary to explore the biblical context of the passage, the historical and cultural background, related Scriptures addressing justice and nonretaliation, as well as the wider theological framework. II. Biblical Context A. Sermon on the Mount Setting Matthew 5:38–39 is part of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), a foundational teaching that illustrates God’s kingdom ethic. In this portion, Jesus contrasts the traditional understanding of retribution (the “eye for eye” principle) with His call to nonretaliation for personal offenses. B. Referencing the Old Testament Law The “eye for eye” directive originated in passages such as Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, and Deuteronomy 19:21. Historically, these guidelines served as a limit to vengeance (to ensure the punishment matched the offense rather than escalating). Jesus, however, goes beyond merely limiting retribution: He calls His followers to a higher ethic of forgiveness and reconciliation. C. Distinguishing Personal Revenge from the Role of Governing Authorities Though Matthew 5:39 focuses on personal responses to wrongdoing, Romans 13:1–5 describes the God-ordained role of civil authorities to maintain justice. These complementary teachings emphasize that individuals are not to take revenge into their own hands, while lawful governments have the responsibility to punish evil. III. Historical and Cultural Background A. Roman Occupation and First-Century Jewish Life During Jesus’ ministry, the Jewish people lived under Roman rule. Personal retaliation frequently escalated and could place a person at odds with powerful local governors and Roman law. Jesus’ emphasis on nonretaliation flowed naturally in a context where personal vengeance often brought severe consequences. B. Evidence from Early Writings Church fathers such as Tertullian (2nd–3rd century) noted that believers are to follow Christ’s call to resist returning evil for evil. Archaeological and textual discoveries affirm first-century manuscript accuracy of Matthew’s Gospel, with multiple papyri (e.g., Papyrus 64 and Papyrus 67) confirming the consistent portrayal of Jesus’ teachings on this subject. IV. Related Passages on Nonretaliation and Love 1. Luke 6:29 – This parallel passage echoes Matthew’s teaching: “If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also.” 2. Romans 12:17–21 – Paul exhorts believers to “never repay evil for evil” but to “overcome evil with good.” 3. 1 Peter 2:21–23 – Christ’s example of enduring suffering without retaliation is highlighted, calling Christians to follow in His steps. These passages consistently commend an attitude of humble forgiveness and the relinquishment of personal vengeance. V. Theological Interpretation A. Heart Transformation Jesus’ instruction is fundamentally about the posture of the heart. By instructing His followers not to resist an evil person with retaliation, He challenges the impulse toward revenge. This teaching is consistent with the broader theme of loving one’s enemies (Matthew 5:44). B. Moral and Spiritual Vision The command seeks to elevate compassion and reconciliation above one’s right to avenge wrongs. This echoes God’s heart throughout Scripture: to break the cycle of violence with mercy, a concept that also resonates with the biblical principle that “mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13). C. Christ’s Ultimate Example Christ modeled this teaching through His own submission to injustice. At His arrest, when Peter drew a sword, Jesus said, “Put your sword back in its place… for all who draw the sword will die by the sword” (Matthew 26:52). At the crucifixion, Jesus did not retaliate against those who crucified Him but instead prayed for their forgiveness (cf. Luke 23:34). VI. Practical Implications A. Personal Interactions 1. Rejecting Personal Vengeance: Scripture calls believers to refuse the urge to “get even.” Instead, believers extend grace and trust that God ultimately rights all wrongs (cf. Deuteronomy 32:35). 2. Seeking Peace: By refraining from returning harm, one invites an opportunity for peace, echoing Romans 12:18, “If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.” B. Defending Others and Public Justice 1. Loving One's Neighbor: Scripture balances nonretaliation against personal insults with the moral duty to protect the vulnerable (Proverbs 24:11). 2. Role of Government: Governments exist to deter and punish grave acts of evil (Romans 13:1–5). Thus, recognizing that law enforcement and other authorities serve a God-given function is compatible with Jesus’ personal command to reject vengeance. C. Behavioral and Emotional Considerations From a behavioral perspective, harboring bitterness often perpetuates conflict. Forgiveness and nonretaliation can break cycles of aggression and open doors to reconciliation and healing. Christ’s teaching encourages believers to relinquish toxic anger and embrace a restorative approach. VII. Examples from Scripture and Church History A. Early Church Martyrs Historically, many early Christians practiced nonretaliation. For instance, Stephen (Acts 7) prayed for those stoning him. This powerful witness demonstrated the radical love Christ taught. B. Ongoing Witness Throughout History Whether during persecution under Roman emperors or under oppressive regimes in later centuries, countless believers have chosen the path of nonretaliation as a testament to Christ’s transforming power. VIII. Balancing Texts: When to Resist Some passages speak of resisting wrongdoing in different contexts. James 4:7 commands believers, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” The context there addresses spiritual warfare rather than retaliation against people. Meanwhile, Ephesians 6:10–12 emphasizes that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. This indicates that the believer proactively stands against evil ideas and temptations, while refraining from personal vengeance. IX. Conclusion Jesus’ instruction, “Do not resist an evil person,” calls for a relinquishing of personal vengeance and a willingness to act with radical mercy. This does not negate the biblical role of governing authorities to deter evil or the believer’s responsibility to protect others. Instead, it challenges individuals to respond to personal offense with grace, entrusting justice to God’s righteous hands. Such nonretaliation underscores the call to love our enemies, reflecting Christ’s heart and His example on the cross. In every generation, this teaching remains a cornerstone of Christian ethics, inviting believers to break cycles of outrage and vengeance by trusting God’s justice, thereby fostering peace and reconciliation in a world deeply in need of both. References: • Matthew 5:38–39; 5:44; 26:52 • Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21; 32:35 • Romans 12:17–21; 13:1–5 • James 2:13; 4:7 • Acts 7 |
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