Historic pastoral reading
The Law capped payback. Jesus forbids using that cap as a personal motto.
Matthew 5:38-39
An eye for an eye.
The text
WEB
38 You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.
39 But I tell you, don't resist him who is evil; but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.
KJV
38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
39 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.
What kind of text
- Gospel
- Sermon on the Mount
- Retaliation
Jesus quotes the old legal measure and then addresses personal revenge.
How Christians have read this
Common misuse
Quoted to justify revenge.
What the next verse does
Give the cloak, go the second mile.
Older commentary
Matthew Henry
Henry on Matthew 5:38-39: the old measure limited revenge in court. Christ forbids using it as a personal motto.
Charles Spurgeon
Spurgeon: the law capped payback. The sermon turns the disciple away from private retaliation.