Vengeance, Victory, and Turning the Other Cheek

Sermon Notes

You have heard that it was said…

But I say to you …

*********

You have heard that it was said, 

“An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth,”

Matthew 5:38  Cf.  Exodus 21:24

*********

But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on the right cheek, turn the other to him also.

Matthew 5:39

*********

This instruction is personal and is not directed toward civil authorities

Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

Romans 12:19

For it (civil authority) is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.

Romans 13:4

*********

This verse does not mean we are not to resist evil

Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

James 4:7

Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith…

1 Peter 5:8-9

*********

You have heard it said, “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.”

Matthew 5:43. Cf Leviticus 19:18

*********

But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

Matthew 5:44

*********

Why?

1. Because we’re to be different than others

*********

Why?

2. Because we are to be like our Father in heaven

********

Why?

3. Because this is how we overcome evil

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21