What sibling has not wanted to get even? How many arguments have children angrily rehearsed for the next time their rival tried to mistreat them? How many adults still feel the tug of war internally when insulted by another who has been deemed inferior?
Nothing else seems to scratch our itch like some good old revenge! We greedily lick our chops in anticipation when the villain on the screen is about to get what’s coming to them. We silently rejoice when delicious trouble befalls an enemy.
“You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too. If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles. Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow.”
Matthew 5:38-42
- How did the heart become so situated?
- Why does loving one’s enemy feel like a betrayal of justice?
- Whose justice is on our minds when we feel accordingly?
“Nowhere did the law teach hatred for one’s enemies. Passages like Exodus 23:4–5 indicate just the opposite! Jesus defined our enemies as those who curse us, hate us, and exploit us selfishly. Since Christian love is an act of the will, and not simply an emotion, He has the right to command us to love our enemies. After all, He loved us when we were His enemies (Rom. 5:10).”
Warren Wiersbe
- “Love is a choice.” Do you agree or disagree? Explain.
- Why might Jesus counsel His audience in favor such a forgiving and patient response towards people who deserve pain?
- How might we advise someone today who felt insulted by an “inferior” person?
Food for Thought 