opportunity to love...

Eye for an Eye

Matthew 5:38 NIV

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’

Matthew 5:39–40 NIV

39 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. 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.

Matthew 5:41–42 NIV

41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Jesus is not referring to an attack, but rather a deep insult.

Go the Extra Mile

Matthew 5:40 NIV

40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.

Matthew 5:41 NIV

41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.

Matthew 5:42 NIV

42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

An obligation becomes an opportunity to love.

Love your Enemies

Matthew 5:43 NIV

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’

Matthew 5:44–45 NIV

44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.