IT IS OK TO BE WRONGED Christian Living Series Matt 5:38-42

Introduction Christian living series What if : ◦ I am willing to be nice and kind to others, but others would not to me? ◦ Someone treats me wrong? ◦ Someone take advantage of me?

Mat 5:38-42 You have heard that it was said, "An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth." (39) But I say to you, Do not resist evildoer. But whoever shall strike you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. (40) And to him desiring to sue you, and to take away your tunic, let him have your coat also. (41) And whoever shall compel you to go a mile, go with him two. (42) Give to him who asks of you, and you shall not turn away from him who would borrow from you.

What the Law Says (1) What the law says ◦ “… eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, and bruise for bruise…” Often confused meanings ◦ Revenge and retribution ◦ Barbaric !?

What the Law Says (2) Proper meanings ◦ Exo 21:22-25 Equitable punishment before a judge in case of assault and battering or personal injury. It is clear it is an assault or a fight. ◦ Lev 24:10-22 Equitable and consistent judgement and punishment for all, citizen or non-citizen, in the nation of Israel. ◦ Deu 19:21 Careful investigation and diligently upholding equitable judgement and punishment under the law for all.

Insult than assault

Jesus’ teaching Meaning ◦ Slapper - Disrespect ◦ Litigator – Taking advantage ◦ Persecutor – imposing will Bounds ◦ Applicable when you have quarrel with others ◦ Not criminal – no bullies, battering, etc. ◦ Remember Jesus is using hyperbolic language to emphasize “Make every effort”. Only Action: not to resist evildoers

Not to resist Means willing to making concessions ◦ (Merriam-Webster: as by granting something as a right, accepting something as true, or acknowledging defeat) Not to engage in a struggle

Biblical teachings (1) Rom 12:17-19 ◦ Repay no one evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. (18) If it is possible, as far as is in you, being in peace with all men. (19) not avenging yourselves, beloved, but giving place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord."

Biblical teachings (2) 1Co 6:7-8 ◦ Indeed then there is already on the whole a failure among you, that you have lawsuits with yourselves. Why not instead be wronged? Why not instead be defrauded? (8) But you do wrong and defraud, and these things to brothers. Pro 24:29 ◦ Do not say, I will do so to him as he has done to me; I will give to the man according to his work.

Conclusions Seek peace, not retribution Willing to control your sense of pride, don’t go to extremes in defending it. Willing to be wronged and not treated fairly Willing give up you interest for peace