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Response
In Matthew 5:38–39, Jesus states, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for an eye, and tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer them the other cheek as well.” The idea of “turning the other cheek” can be challenging for us to understand. Allowing a second slap after being slapped once is not something that comes naturally.
In the portion of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount where He instructs us to turn the other cheek, He emphasizes the importance of genuine transformation, rather than just following rules. It is not sufficient to adhere to the literal interpretation of the law; we must also adhere to the spirit of the law.
The context surrounding Jesus’ directive to turn the other cheek aligns with the essence of His mission, which was characterized by compassion, selfless love, and patience towards sinners. Simultaneously, Jesus upholds the principle of “the last shall be first” on which the kingdom of God is founded. For example, He encourages us to go the extra mile for someone who mistreats us «And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. », (Matthew 5:41) and to show love and pray for our enemies instead of harboring animosity towards them (verse 44). In essence, Jesus is conveying the importance of being pure both internally and externally, and being as accommodating as possible for the betterment of a lost world.
Regarding the “slap” that Jesus mentions we should endure, He is referring to personal offenses of any kind. The slap (or the “smiting,” as stated in the KJV) does not necessarily involve physical violence. Even in contemporary times, a “slap in the face” symbolizes an unexpected insult or offense. Did someone insult you?
Let him, Jesus says. Are you shocked and offended? Don’t be. And don’t return insult for insult. Turn the other cheek.
Matthew Henry’s commentary on this verse is insightful: “Endure any injury that can be borne, for the sake of peace, entrusting your concerns to the Lord’s care. The essence of it all is that Christians should steer clear of disputes and conflicts. If someone argues that it is impossible to overlook such an offense, let them remember that mere human nature cannot inherit the kingdom of God; and those who act based on correct principles will experience more peace and comfort.” Concise Commentary, entry for Matthew 5:38.
Turning the other cheek does not advocate pacifism, nor does it mean we should endanger ourselves or others. Jesus’ directive to turn the other cheek is simply a call to refrain from retaliating against personal affronts. He was not establishing governmental foreign policy, nor was He abolishing the judicial system. Crimes can still be prosecuted, and wars can still be fought, but a follower of Christ does not need to defend his personal “rights” or seek revenge for his honor.
There was a period in history when a man would feel obligated to defend his honor against someone who defamed him or tarnished his reputation. The offended party would challenge the offender to a duel. Swords, firearms, or other weapons would be selected, and the two adversaries would confront each other. In most cases, pointless bloodshed would follow. Samuel Johnson advocated for the practice of dueling: “A man may shoot the man who attacks his character, just as he may shoot the one who tries to break into his house.” The issue is that “attacks on character” are precisely what Jesus instructed us to endure in Matthew 5:38. Turning the other cheek would have been a wiser choice than dueling, and it could have saved lives.
Retaliation is what most people anticipate and how worldly individuals behave. Turning the other cheek necessitates divine assistance. Responding to hatred with love and disregarding personal offenses demonstrate the supernatural power of the indwelling Holy Spirit and magnify.
It affords the opportunity to share the gospel.
Jesus was, indeed, the perfect example of turning the other cheek because He remained silent before His accusers and did not seek revenge from heaven upon those who crucified Him. Instead, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” «Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. », (Luke 23:34).
