Matthew 5:38-42
The King calls His people to relinquish retaliation and answer wrong with mercy-shaped strength.
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.
40 If anyone sues you to take away your coat, let him have your cloak also.
41 Whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.
42 Give to him who asks you, and don’t turn away him who desires to borrow from you.
The King calls his people to relinquish retaliation and answer wrong with mercy-shaped strength.
Matthew records Jesus moving kingdom righteousness beyond personal retaliation into patient mercy, non-defensive endurance, and generous openness toward those who wrong or demand from disciples.
The Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus instructs disciples under the hearing of the crowds.
Kingdom Blessedness, Fulfilled Law, and Heart-Level Righteousness
Jesus reveals that kingdom citizens are blessed, visible, Scripture-governed, and called to a heart-level righteousness that reflects the character of their heavenly Father.