Resisting Evil

 

  Teaching About Retaliation

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

39 But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on [your] right cheek, turn the other one to him as well.

40 If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well.

41 Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles. 

42 Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.  (Matthew 5:38-42)

I’m not fond of these sayings.  They are unrealistic guidance. I suppose the powerless having to deal with strong persecutors/abusers able to inflict severe physical punishment might find this approach the best option.  However, not for wives abused by cruel husbands; not for any of us when dealing with evil people and actions.  

Jesus's focus is on revenge and how eye-for-eye and tooth-for-tooth retaliation leads to out-of-control conflict spirals with worsening outcomes for all sides.  He warns us against what anger and hate can spark - unending tit for tat behavior.  He is correct.

However, offering no resistance to someone or some group that is evil is bad advice.  It makes us pawns in the evildoers' games.  It makes us weak and easy targets for despots and those seeking power and control over our lives, our neighbors, and even our nation.

Turning the other cheek has merit in some circumstances, but not when it comes to confronting evil. 

Deacon David Pierce