The Law Turned Upside Down (Session 6)
Against Violence
You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ 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. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. Matthew 5:38-42
Episode Summary
This video explores the fifth antithesis in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus redefines biblical justice through nonviolence. Beginning with “an eye for an eye,” Jesus challenges the use of retaliation to justify personal or political vengeance and instead calls his followers to resist evil without becoming violent themselves. The study examines the historical and social context behind Jesus’ words, including Roman occupation, economic inequality, and the expectations of a violent messianic revolution.
Through Jesus’ commands to turn the other cheek, give up the cloak, go the second mile, and give generously, this video examines how creative nonviolent resistance can expose injustice and challenge systems of oppression. Rather than seeking to defeat enemies through force, Jesus calls his followers to pursue a radically different kind of justice—one that refuses revenge, exposes evil, and reflects the alternative reality of the kingdom of God.
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