MATTHEW 5:38-42
TEACHING ABOUT RETALIATION
INTRODUCTION
The passage from Matthew 5:38-42, often called the “Teaching about Retaliation,” presents a challenging message from Jesus. In the Old Testament, the principle “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” was intended to ensure fairness in punishment, preventing excessive retribution. This guideline, known as ‘lex talionis,’ was part of the legal system in ancient Israel. However, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus reinterprets this law, shifting the focus from legal justice to personal behavior. Instead of encouraging retaliation, He calls His followers to respond to wrongs with love, generosity, and non-violence, urging them to “turn the other cheek,” “offer your cloak,” and “go the extra mile” when faced with personal injustice.
This teaching challenges our natural instincts to defend ourselves and seek payback. Jesus introduces a radical approach to love and forgiveness, asking us to break the cycle of retaliation and embody mercy and compassion in our daily lives. His instruction to “offer no resistance to one who is evil” and to give freely to those in need is not about passivity but about living out the values of the Kingdom of Heaven, where love and forgiveness triumph over vengeance. This teaching is a cornerstone of Christian ethics, guiding believers to respond to personal offenses in a way that reflects Christ’s character and the values of His kingdom.
Matthew 5:38-39 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 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.”
This passage is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, where He addresses the principle of ‘lex talionis’ (the law of retaliation) found in the Old Testament (Ex 21:24; Lev 24:19-20; Deut 19:21). This law was originally intended to limit excessive punishment and ensure that justice was proportionate to the offense. However, Jesus calls His followers to a higher standard, one that transcends mere justice and moves toward mercy, forgiveness, and transformative love.
Catholic Interpretation
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus’ instruction to “turn the other cheek” is not a call to passivity or to being a doormat but rather a call to active non-violence and peacemaking. This teaching emphasizes the importance of responding to evil with good, thereby breaking the cycle of retaliation and vengeance. Jesus’ command to “not resist an evildoer” invites Christians to respond to aggression with a spirit of peace and love, aligning with the virtue of ‘meekness’ – strength under control – which allows us to endure wrongs patiently and to entrust judgment to God, as Jesus did during His Passion (1 Pet 2:23).
Hyperbole and Peacemaking: Jesus often used hyperbole to make His points more striking and memorable. In this context, turning the other cheek is a hyperbolic way of illustrating the need to avoid escalating violence and to seek peaceful resolutions (cf. Mt 5:40-42).
Self-Defense: The Church recognizes the right to self-defense. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that legitimate defense can be not only a right but a grave duty for one who is responsible for the lives of others (CCC 2264-2265). However, the emphasis remains on minimizing harm and seeking peace whenever possible.
Jesus as the Model: Jesus Himself exemplified this teaching during His Passion. When struck, He responded with calm and dignity, questioning the injustice rather than retaliating (Jn 18:22-23). His response was one of strength and control, not weakness (Mt 26:67-68). St. Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 12:19-21, urging believers not to take revenge but to “overcome evil with good.”
The Catechism further reflects this teaching in several passages. For instance, CCC 2306 upholds that those who renounce violence and bloodshed bear witness to the charity of Christ. Additionally, CCC 2262 highlights that Jesus does not abolish the prohibition against killing but rather goes beyond it by urging us to reject anger and hatred, the roots of violence.
Reflection
Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:38-39 challenges us to reflect deeply on our responses to personal injustices. It is a radical call to live in a way that is counter-cultural and deeply challenging. In a world that often glorifies revenge and retaliation, Christians are called to imitate Christ by responding with love, mercy, and forgiveness. This doesn’t mean allowing injustice to go unchecked but rather seeking ways to overcome evil with good, as Jesus did. The call to “turn the other cheek” is a reminder that true Christian strength is found in our capacity to love even those who harm us. This love is not possible by human effort alone but through the grace of God working in our hearts.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, teach us to follow the example of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who showed us the way of peace and forgiveness. Help us to turn the other cheek, not out of weakness, but out of a desire to break the cycle of violence and to bring Your love into the world. Grant us the strength to respond to evil with good, to forgive those who hurt us, and to seek reconciliation and peace in all our relationships. May we become true peacemakers, reflecting Your mercy and love in everything we do. Amen.
Matthew 5:40 “If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well.”
In this verse, the “tunic” (a basic inner garment) and the “cloak” (a more valuable outer garment) symbolize one’s material possessions. In Jewish law, the cloak was considered so essential that it was protected under the law; a creditor could not keep it overnight (Ex 22:26-27). Yet, Jesus teaches that His followers should be willing to give up even what they are legally entitled to retain, displaying a profound detachment from material possessions and an extraordinary generosity.
This teaching aligns with the Catholic understanding of the Beatitudes, where Jesus blesses the “poor in spirit” (Mt 5:3). Being “poor in spirit” means recognizing our total dependence on God and our detachment from material wealth and possessions. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2544) emphasizes this point, stating that “Jesus enjoins his disciples to prefer him to everything and everyone, and bids them ‘renounce all that they have’ for his sake and that of the Gospel.”
Catholic Teachings and Biblical References
1. Non-Retaliation and Love for Enemies: Jesus’ teaching in this verse aligns with the broader Christian principle of loving one’s enemies and not seeking revenge. This is further supported by other parts of the New Testament, such as Romans 12:19-21, where St. Paul advises believers to leave vengeance to God and to overcome evil with good.
2. Generosity and Self-Sacrifice: Catholic teaching emphasizes the virtue of generosity and self-sacrifice. In Luke 6:29, a parallel passage, Jesus similarly teaches to offer the other cheek when struck. This reflects a spirit of self-giving and love that goes beyond the minimum requirement.
3. Historical Context and Interpretation: Early Church Fathers, such as St. Augustine, interpreted this passage as a call to Christian perfection, where believers are encouraged to act out of love and not mere obligation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2262) also reflects on this teaching, noting that Jesus’ words call for a transformation of the heart, moving away from the cycle of retribution.
This verse is not merely about passive non-resistance; it is a call to active charity. St. Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 12:20-21: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” The Christian response to wrongdoing is not retaliation, but love, which reflects the self-giving love of Christ on the cross (Lk 23:34).
Reflection
As Christians, Matthew 5:40 challenges us to reflect on our attitudes toward material possessions and our rights. Are we willing to let go of what we feel entitled to in order to follow Christ more closely? This teaching invites us to trust in God’s providence rather than cling to earthly goods. It also calls us to a deeper level of charity – one that not only refrains from retaliation but goes the extra mile in generosity and love, even towards those who wrong us. Are we willing to go beyond what is required, showing mercy and generosity even to those who wrong us? This teaching calls us to embody the love of Christ, who gave Himself fully for our salvation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the teachings of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who calls us to live lives of radical love and generosity. Help us to detach ourselves from material possessions and rights that keep us from fully trusting in You. Grant us the grace to respond to injustice not with retaliation but with the love and generosity that reflects Your Kingdom. May we always seek to overcome evil with good, and may our actions reflect the self-giving love of Christ. Strengthen our hearts to forgive, to love our enemies, and to be instruments of Your peace in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 5:41 “If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.”
In Matthew 5:41, part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus offers a profound lesson on love, generosity, and going beyond the bare minimum in our dealings with others. This teaching, rooted in the social and political context of first-century Palestine, reflects Jesus’ radical call to love, even in situations of oppression. Roman soldiers, under Roman law, could compel Jewish citizens to carry their gear for one mile. Jesus, however, instructs His followers not just to comply with this demand but to go an extra mile voluntarily, symbolizing a spirit of generosity and love that exceeds mere obligation.
This teaching aligns with the broader message of non-retaliation and radical love that Jesus espouses throughout the Sermon on the Mount. It echoes His earlier directives to turn the other cheek (Mt 5:39) and to love one’s enemies (Mt 5:44). The “second mile” is thus a powerful metaphor for the Christian call to transcend basic obligations and to act out of love and mercy, reflecting the boundless love of God.
Catholic Teachings and References
1. Generosity and Charity:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) underscores that true charity is rooted in the love of God and goes beyond mere duty. CCC 1827 emphasizes, “The practice of all the virtues is animated and inspired by charity, which ‘binds everything together in perfect harmony’ (Col 3:14); it is the form of the virtues; it articulates and orders them among themselves; it is the source and the goal of their Christian practice.” Jesus’ instruction to “go the extra mile” encourages Christians to embody this virtue of charity, even when it is not demanded.
2. The Spirit of the Law:
Jesus challenges His followers to understand and embrace the spirit of the Law, rather than merely adhering to its letter. The “second mile” can be seen as an embodiment of this deeper understanding, where the follower of Christ acts not out of mere obligation, but from a heartfelt desire to serve God and neighbor. CCC 1968 explains, “The Law of the Gospel ‘fulfills’, refines, surpasses, and leads the Old Law to its perfection. In the Beatitudes, the New Law fulfills the divine promises by elevating and orienting them toward the ‘kingdom of heaven’.” This teaching encourages Christians to reflect God’s love in all their actions.
3. Imitating Christ’s Example:
Jesus exemplified this teaching in His Passion and Crucifixion, where He went beyond what was expected by offering His life for the salvation of humanity. Philippians 2:7-8 speaks of Jesus “emptying Himself” and becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Christians are called to imitate this self-giving love by embracing sacrifice and service, even when it involves going beyond what is required.
Reflection
Reflecting on Matthew 5:41, we are reminded of the transformative power of love and generosity. In a world often driven by self-interest and retaliation, Jesus calls us to a higher standard of living. By willingly going the extra mile, we not only fulfill our obligations but also open the door to grace and reconciliation. This teaching challenges us to view our interactions with others, especially those who may seem adversarial, as opportunities to manifest Christ’s love and mercy. The “second mile” is a metaphor for the extra effort we are invited to make in our relationships, work, and acts of charity. By embracing this teaching, we allow the grace of God to work through us, transforming not only our lives but also the lives of those we encounter.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, grant us the grace to follow in the footsteps of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who taught us to love beyond measure. Help us to embrace the spirit of the “second mile” in our daily lives, offering our time, resources, and love generously to those around us. May we reflect Your boundless love in our actions, going beyond what is required to serve others with a joyful and willing heart. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, may our efforts bring glory to Your name and draw others closer to Your Kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 5:42 “Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.”
This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus calls His followers to a radical standard of love and generosity, challenging the conventional norms of justice and reciprocity.
Generosity as a Reflection of God’s Love
In the Catholic tradition, this verse is understood as an invitation to embody Christ-like generosity and selflessness. Jesus’ instruction to “give to the one who asks” is rooted in the understanding that Christians are called to imitate the boundless generosity of God the Father. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes that charity, the love of God and neighbor, is the greatest of all the virtues (CCC 1822). Acts of charity are fundamental to Christian life, reflecting the love of God for humanity (CCC 2447).
St. Thomas Aquinas, in his ‘Summa Theologiae,’ interprets this teaching as a call to be patient and generous, even when it is challenging, as part of the spiritual works of mercy. This verse challenges us to practice charity not only in extraordinary ways but also in our daily interactions with others, reflecting the boundless love of Christ.
Detachment from Material Possessions
This teaching also encourages a detachment from material wealth. Jesus consistently taught that one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions (Lk 12:15). In giving freely to those who ask, Christians demonstrate their trust in God’s providence rather than in worldly goods. The CCC reminds us that “the goods of creation are destined for the entire human race” (CCC 2402), urging us to share what we have with those in need. This is not a call to reckless giving but to a discernment that balances generosity with prudence.
Mercy and Compassion
By instructing us not to turn away from those who wish to borrow, Jesus emphasizes mercy and compassion. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25-37) exemplifies this attitude of selfless love. Jesus calls His followers to extend kindness even when it is inconvenient or when there is no prospect of being repaid. This reflects the teaching in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus says, “But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; then your reward will be great” (Lk 6:35).
The Call to Radical Discipleship
The verse is not merely a call to superficial generosity but to a radical way of living. This involves a total commitment to the values of the Kingdom of God, where love, mercy, and self-giving are paramount. Pope Francis, in his encyclical ‘Fratelli Tutti,’ underscores the importance of fraternity and social friendship, encouraging a culture of encounter and openness to others, especially the marginalized. This teaching challenges us to examine our attitudes towards material possessions and our willingness to help others.
Reflection
Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:42 invites us to a deeper conversion, where our love for others mirrors the unconditional love that God has for each of us. Are we willing to give freely, trusting in God’s provision, and showing mercy to those who ask for our help? As Christians, we are encouraged to foster a spirit of generosity that reflects the boundless love of Christ, recognizing that true wealth lies in our ability to give and serve others. We are invited to be channels of God’s grace and compassion in the world, offering help to those in need without hesitation or reservation.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You have blessed us with so many gifts and graces. Grant us the grace to open our hearts to those in need. Help us to be generous in sharing what we have with others, especially those in need. Give us the courage to love as You love, to give without counting the cost, and to be merciful as You are merciful. Teach us to trust in Your providence, knowing that You care for us and will provide all that we need. May our actions reflect Your love and bring hope to those who are struggling. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
CONCLUSION
In Matthew 5:38-42, Jesus calls us to a revolutionary way of living that transcends the natural inclination towards retaliation and self-defense. He invites us to embrace a spirit of love, generosity, and mercy that mirrors the values of the Kingdom of Heaven. By turning the other cheek, going the extra mile, and giving to those in need, we embody the radical love of Christ, which seeks not to conquer evil with violence, but to overcome it with good. This teaching challenges us to trust in God’s justice and to cultivate a heart that is ready to forgive, give, and love, even in the face of adversity.
The call to non-retaliation is not a sign of weakness but a powerful witness to the strength that comes from a deep relationship with God. It reflects the mercy and compassion that Jesus Himself demonstrated throughout His life and ministry, especially in His Passion. As followers of Christ, we are called to break the cycle of violence and hatred by responding with love and generosity, trusting that in doing so, we participate in the redemptive work of Christ, bringing His peace and healing to a broken world.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us the path of love and forgiveness, urging us to turn the other cheek and to go the extra mile. Fill our hearts with the grace to follow His example, even when it is difficult. Help us to respond to injustice with mercy, to forgive those who harm us, and to give generously to those in need. May our actions reflect Your love and bring peace to our world. Strengthen us to live out the radical call to love that Jesus has given us, and may we be instruments of Your grace and mercy in all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.