# 13. 2017 Dev. Mt. 5:38-39. The Eye and Tooth. Read verses 38-42. The purpose of these devotionals is to draw closer to God by memorizing selected passages of Scripture. Further, to view the passage in context and grow spiritually by applying His Word to our daily living with family, friends and others. All passages are taken from the NIV.
Mathew 5: 38 -39
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’[h] 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also”.
This statement of Jesus may be one of the most difficult to apply. The idea of an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, a foot for a foot is found in Ex. 21:24, Lev.24:20, and Dt. 19:21 The precept is about personal injury and the appropriate response to it. It does not mean that an eye, tooth or foot would be required but a response appropriate for the offense is required.
Jesus is saying something quite different and even more radical. Don’t resist, turn the other cheek for a second blow. Really? Don’t resist evil with evil but with good, not by allowing ourselves to be a door mat but to give to those in need. What Jesus is saying is that we respond with an appropriate response; Love!
If someone wants something from us it should be appropriate to the need of the person. Does he/she really need a shirt or a coat? If we have what we need we are required to help those in need. We are told to not only look to or own interest but to the interest of others and love others more than ourselves. Philippians 2:3-4. “Have the same mind of Christ.” Paul tells us: in humility serve others.
Jesus is talking about our relationships; in the last analysis our relationships are more important than our processions. That is not the way of the world, we are surrounded with appeals to buy, buy this and be happier, a lot of it we do not need. Jesus is telling us to think about others in conflict, “turn the other cheek” and to look at others who are in legitimate need, help and go the extra mile. As followers Jesus our responses should be geared to build relationships, thereby building the Kingdom of God. Amen!
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