Keraia
Matthew 5

Matthew 5:39

Love Your Enemies · Matthew 5:38–48
Read Matthew 5

Translations

Modern
But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also;
Traditional
But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Literal
But I say to you not to resist the evil person. But whoever may strike you on your right cheek, turn to him also the other.
Latin
Ego autem dico vobis, non resistere malo: sed si quis te percusserit in dexteram maxillam tuam, præbe illi et alteram:

Original

Greek
English
But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also;

Notes

Matthew 5:38–42

The Old Testament allowed fair retribution (payback) (Exodus 21:24–25; Deuteronomy 19:16–21) to keep punishments from being too severe. Yet, Jesus does not allow personal revenge for his disciples. Instead, Jesus teaches finding victory through suffering and the cross (1 Peter 2:23).

Some consider this teaching as a guide for all aspects of life, including politics. Others consider it to apply to personal willingness to give up rights and forgive as God forgives (see Matt 5:48; 18:23–35). Like the servant in Isaiah 50:4–9 and 53:7 (see also Matthew 12:15–21), the followers of Jesus should apply this virtue to honor, possessions, time, or property. True righteousness does not demand its own way.

Matthew 5:21–47

You have heard … But I tell you: Jesus contrasts his teachings to six misunderstandings of the law. Each example shows the surpassing righteousness of Jesus. Jesus reveals God's will, which contrasts with human traditions.

Events

Parallels

Leviticus 24:17–23 Luke 6:27–36

Glossary

Biblical Concept of Law Discipline First Letter to the Corinthians Gospel of Matthew Heal, Healing Imprecatory Psalms Jesus Christ Moses Psalms, Book of Reward Sea of Galilee

Topics

Assault and Battery: Laws Concerning Breaking Up Christian Conduct: Submitting to Injuries Commandments: Precepts of Jesus--Explicitly Stated, or Implied in Didactic Discourse Death Penalty Defending Yourself Forgiveness of Enemies God's Vengeance Gun Control Hating Others Hating People How to Treat your Enemies Injustice: Saints should Take No Vengeance For Instruction in Religion Judaism: The Religion of the Jews: To Make Room for the Gospel Killing in Self Defense Law: Temporary Legions Making Mistakes Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Meekness: General Scriptures Concerning Meekness: His Teaching Mind Control Protection Religion: True Retaliation: General Scriptures Concerning Retribution Revenge: Forbidden by Our Lord Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Exercise Forbearance Standing Up for Yourself Strife: General Scriptures Concerning Strife: Saints should Submit to Wrong Rather than Engage In The Death Penalty The Enemy Threats Turn the Other Cheek Turning the Other Cheek Violence Weapons