How does Matthew 5:38 connect to Romans 12:17-21 on vengeance? Recalling the Texts “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 someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.” “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Consider carefully what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: ‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.’ Instead, ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” The Shared Thread: Rejecting Personal Retaliation • Both passages confront our instinct to strike back when wronged. • Jesus establishes the principle; Paul echoes and expands it for the church. • Each text moves the believer from the old legal right of retribution (Exodus 21:24) to a higher calling of grace. Jesus Sets the New Standard (Matthew 5:38-41) • “Eye for eye” was a civil guideline limiting vengeance; Jesus goes further, telling His followers to surrender the right altogether. • Turning the other cheek, giving the cloak, and walking the extra mile illustrate active, voluntary self-denial rather than passive resignation. • The pattern reflects Isaiah 53:7—Messiah “did not open His mouth” when oppressed. Paul Applies the Standard to Everyday Church Life (Romans 12:17-21) • “Do not repay” parallels “Do not resist an evil person.” • “Leave room for God’s wrath” grounds non-retaliation in confidence that the Lord will judge righteously (Deuteronomy 32:35). • Positive action replaces revenge: feeding and giving drink, echoing Jesus’ command in Luke 6:27-31. • The goal: conquer evil with good, mirroring Christ’s victory at the cross (1 Peter 2:23). Why the Command Matters 1. Displays God’s character – He is “compassionate and gracious… yet will by no means leave the guilty unpunished” (Exodus 34:6-7). – We reflect His mercy while trusting His justice. 2. Testifies to the Gospel – Acts 7:59-60 shows Stephen embodying both passages, praying for persecutors. – Such responses cause observers to “glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). 3. Frees the Believer’s Heart – Harboring vengeance enslaves (Hebrews 12:15). – Releasing the right to retaliate entrusts burdens to the righteous Judge (1 Peter 4:19). Practical Steps to Live This Out • Remember God’s promise: He will set all accounts straight. • Choose proactive kindness; plan tangible acts of good toward those who wrong you. • Meditate on Christ’s example—enduring the cross “for the joy set before Him” (Hebrews 12:2). • Rely on the Spirit’s power (Galatians 5:22-23); self-control and love enable supernatural responses. Tying It Together Matthew 5:38 introduces the call to lay down personal retribution; Romans 12:17-21 shows the church how to practice that call. Both direct believers to trust God’s justice and showcase His mercy, overcoming evil not by mirroring it but by actively doing good. |
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