E. Stanley Jones once said we are more likely to sin in our reactions than in our actions.
In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus gives us a pattern for how to live as he lived, but many are hard teachings. Few are harder than this one:
Do not resist the evil one - Matthew 5v39
What does it mean to not resist evil?
In the transformative teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, we are invited to explore Jesus’ revolutionary call to respond to evil not with retaliation, but with acts of goodness. This passage from Matthew 5v38-42 challenges the status quo and introduces a divine approach to dealing with wrongdoing.
“An Eye for an Eye”
Jesus begins by addressing the well-known phrase, “An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth,” a principle from the ancient law of retaliation, or Lex Talionis. This law was meant to limit revenge and ensure that punishment did not exceed the crime. It didn’t work, and violence only led to more violence. Instead, Jesus calls us to a higher standard, one that breaks the vicious cycle entirely.
Jesus’ Radical Call to Non-Resistance
Jesus’ instruction is clear: “Do not resist the one who is evil.” He provides four illustrations of how we can live this out in the various situations of real life.
- Turning the Other Cheek: If someone strikes you, offer them the other cheek. This act of non-retaliation not only diffuses the situation but also shifts the dynamics of power. You are taking responsibility for your own life and nobody can have your dignity.
- Giving More Than Asked: If someone sues you for your tunic, give them your cloak as well. This demonstrates a willingness to go above and beyond, reflecting a spirit of genuine care , generosity and peace. Christians need not go to court or seek litigation unless absolutely necessary.
- Going the Extra Mile: When compelled to walk one mile, walk two. Jesus example refers to the Roman practice of making occupied subjects carry a soldiers equipment for a mile without questions or opposition. The first mile you have to walk, but the second is your choice. How do we respond to obligation in our lives? Often we do the bare minimum. However, going the proverbial “extra mile” shows a proactive approach to serving others, transforming an obligation into an opportunity to exemplify grace.
- Generosity to Those in Need: Jesus urges us to give to those who beg and lend to those who wish to borrow, highlighting the importance of compassion and selflessness. It does not, however, say that we should give them whatever they ask for. Instead, we should be willing to give to those in need, as we are able and in ways that are helpful.
Breaking the Cycle of Violence
Jesus’ approach is not about passivity but active non-resistance. By returning good for evil, we disrupt the cycle of violence and demonstrate the transformative power of love. This principle challenges us to think deeply about our reactions and to embody the values of the Kingdom of God.
Practical Steps for Living Out This Teaching
- Be Proactive: Take care of your inner world. Address wounds, anger, and sin that could influence your reactions.
- Practice Curiosity: Reflect on your responses. Ask yourself if you are reacting with force or practicing a Kingdom response.
- Pray for Strength: Seek the Holy Spirit’s power to respond with grace and love, acknowledging that we cannot do this on our own.
How will you react?
The call to respond to evil with good is not easy, but it a significant part of God’s rule and reign through His followers on earth right now. Where evil is returned with good, His Kingdom is announced and by embracing this teaching, we participate in a divine conspiracy to overcome evil with the transformative power of love. Let us strive to reflect Jesus in our reactions and be agents of His Kingdom in a world that desperately needs His grace.
M
This post is based on a message originally given on January 5th, 2025, at the Crosspoint Church1
micahemerson.ca 