Love and Pray for Your Enemies

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments

Mt 5:44  “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…”

Summary Notes
Say What?!

Jesus’ command to “Love you enemies,”  was radically different from what the people of Israel had been taught up until that time.

Why would He say this?
Photo: Dawn Carlson – When the sea becomes an enemy there’s no benefit in cursing it. The only reasonable thing to do is to find shelter if possible. The harbor and lighthouse at Eagle Harbor were built because there was inadequate shelter from storms on Lake Superior. During a storm the lighthouse calls mariners to come and take shelter in the harbor.   Fr. James Martin’s quote is an appropriate and helpful tool to apply Jesus’ command to be kind even to the jerks in my life!   This image and more can be found in the Photo Gallery.  Click here see why I like lighthouses.

In Jesus’ day people were taught to love their neighbors but to hate their enemies. But I think that Jesus was trying to point out that our enemies are people too.  In my response to them and their actions I should consider this fundamental fact.

 

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my FULL NOTES and references…

COMMAND 19: “…love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…”
Mt 5:44 also Lk 6:27-28, 35
RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT: A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount

Mt 5:38-43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’  39But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.  40If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.  41Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.  42Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.”
43“You have heard that it was said, `YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.”    

Similar context in Lk 6:24-34

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:

Mt 5:44-45  “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on {the} evil and {the} good, and sends rain on {the} righteous and {the} unrighteous.”

Lk 6:27b-28 “…love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. “

Lk 6:35a “But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men.”

RESULT:  

Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

Lk 7:1 When He had completed all His discourse in the hearing of the people, He went to Capernaum.

COMMENT:

Notice the significant difference in the New American Standard Bible (NASB) version versus the King James Version (KJV) version below. The difference is due to the fact that the more modern NASB translators had access to more ancient manuscripts than the translators of the KJV in the 1600s and those more ancient manuscripts did not include the additional words.  Of course there is controversy regarding which translation is correct. Either way, the overall meaning of the verse is not changed substantially.

KJV Mt 5:44 “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;”

NASB Mt 5:44 “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”

Other relevant verses:

Psalms 109 is a prayer of King David.  It is a good example of the radical difference of what Jesus was saying to the people of Israel and what they had been taught as acceptable up until that time.

Ps 109:1-9+ For the choir director. A Psalm of David. O God of my praise, Do not be silent!  2For they have opened the wicked and deceitful mouth against me; They have spoken against me with a lying tongue.  3They have also surrounded me with words of hatred, And fought against me without cause.  4In return for my love they act as my accusers; But I am in prayer.  5Thus they have repaid me evil for good And hatred for my love.  6Appoint a wicked man over him, And let an accuser stand at his right hand.  7When he is judged, let him come forth guilty, And let his prayer become sin.  8Let his days be few; Let another take his office.  9Let his children be fatherless And his wife a widow…  King David’s prayer continues on.  

Comparing King David’s prayer with the teachings of Jesus’ disciples below shows an incredible contrast of attitude.

Ro 12:17-19 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men.  18If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 19Never 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.

1T 5:15 See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.

1 P 2:12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe {them,} glorify God in the day of visitation.

1 P 3:11 “HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.

DEFINITIONS:  Key Greek Words – Removes ambiguity of the Bible text.

love:   G25  ἀγαπάω  ag-ap-ah’-ō  — love as a decision that meets basic needs (as a parent loves his or her children with food, shelter, instruction, etcetera)

enemies:  G2190 ἐχθρός  ekh-thros  — an adversary

persecute:  G1377  διώκω  dee-ō-kō  —  to pursue

bless:  G2127 εὐλογέω   yoo-log-eh’-ō  — speak well of, praise

curse:  G2672  καταράομαι  kat-ar-ah’-om-ahee  — to curse

do good:  G4160 G2573   ποιέω   καλῶς  poy-eh’-ō  kal-oce’  — make (or do) well

hating:    G3404  μισέω  mis-eh’-ō  — to detest (especially to persecute)

mistreat:  G1908  ἐπηρεάζω   ep-ay-reh-ad’-zō  — to insult, slander

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application and please share it in the comments

I will demonstrate love to my enemies as best that I can within the context of the situation. If possible I will take thought to place myself in their position and to consider kindness as a way to open an opportunity for reconciliation. I will demonstrate graciousness and patience because these are admirable character qualities whereas anger and vengeance are not.

RETURN TO COMMAND

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Give and Do Not Turn Away

Matthew Sermon on the Mount 1 Comment

Mt 5:42 “Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.”  Lk 6:30 “…and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back.”

Summary Notes
Say What?!

Jesus wraps up this paragraph about changing my attitude toward difficult people and uncomfortable circumstances by talking about giving and lending.  He describes what it would look like for me to have an open heart and to take up an attitude of generosity.    

Why would He say this?
Alpena Light Give a Benefit
Photo – Dawn Carlson       I can relate Seneca’s quote to the lighthouse and it’s keeper. They gave their benefit to all who sought it. By day the light was and is a day mark for passing ships to check their position. By night the light provides similar benefit with its color and flash pattern. Even in dense fog the fog signal calls out danger for those close enough to hear it. This image and more can be found in the Photo Gallery.  Click here see why I like lighthouses.

I do not think Jesus is telling His followers that they must give away all their money and possessions. This command,  like the others before it, is about my personal attitude.  There are lots of Bible verses supporting and bounding the command to give and to lend.  It’s important to be smart about how and to whom you give and lend.  But, overall I think that Jesus is telling me to have a more generous attitude rather than my natural stingy disposition.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my FULL NOTES and references…

 

Command 18 “Give to him who asks…, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow …”

Mt 5:42; also Lk 6:30

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain,

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT:  A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount:  This command comes at the end of the paragraph:  

Mt 5:38-41 “You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’  39But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.   40If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.  41Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT:

Mt 5:42 “Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.”

Lk 6:30 “Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back.”

RESULT:   No stated result except for two chapters later when Jesus came down from the mountain,

Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:  

Luke 6 adds a twist in the narrative to not demand back what someone has taken from you.  This twist is in the context of someone who borrowed something. Jesus is saying do not ask for it again (demand it back).  I hate it when someone does not return what they’ve borrowed from me, and I certainly don’t want to be that guy who doesn’t return things that I borrow!  Its important to be careful who I let borrow what.

There are lots of Bible verses supporting and bounding the command to give and to lend:

If a Jewish person was lending to a Jewish person

Ex 22:25   “If you lend money to My people, to the poor among you, you are not to act as a creditor to him; you shall not charge him interest.

Regarding the Nation of Israel and personal giving to a fellow Jewish person

Dt 15:6-10 “For the LORD your God will bless you as He has promised you, and you will lend to many nations, but you will not borrow; and you will rule over many nations, but they will not rule over you.

7“If there is a poor man with you, one of your brothers, in any of your towns in your land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart, nor close your hand from your poor brother; 8but you shall freely open your hand to him, and shall generously lend him sufficient for his need in whatever he lacks.  9“Beware that there is no base thought in your heart, saying, ‘The seventh year, the year of remission, is near,’ and your eye is hostile toward your poor brother, and you give him nothing; then he may cry to the LORD against you, and it will be a sin in you.  10“You shall generously give to him, and your heart shall not be grieved when you give to him, because for this thing the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in all your undertakings.

Regarding the Nation of Israel

Dt 28:12 “The LORD will open for you His good storehouse, the heavens, to give rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hand; and you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.

Ps 37:21 The wicked borrows and does not pay back, But the righteous is gracious and gives.

Ps 37:25-26 I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken Or his descendants begging bread.  26All day long he is gracious and lends, And his descendants are a blessing.

Ps 112:5 It is well with the man who is gracious and lends; He will maintain his cause in judgment.

Proverbs was written by King Solomon, the man that the Bible says was the wisest man who ever lived

Pr 22:7 The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower {becomes} the lender’s slave.

Pr 30:15 The leech has two daughters, “Give,” “Give.” There are three things that will not be satisfied, Four that will not say, “Enough”:

Jesus talks about giving

Mt 6:1-4 “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.  2So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full.  3But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,  4so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees {what is done} in secret will reward you.”

Lk 6:34-35 “If you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners in order to receive back the same amount.  35But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men.”

Christian Apostles Peter and John had no money to give but gave to this man what they could

Ac 3:2-7 And a man who had been lame from his mother’s womb was being carried along, whom they used to set down every day at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, in order to beg alms of those who were entering the temple.

3 When he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple, he {began} asking to receive alms…   6But Peter said, “I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene–walk!”  7And seizing him by the right hand, he raised him up; and immediately his feet and his ankles were strengthened. With a leap he stood upright and {began} to walk; and he entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.

DEFINITIONS: Key Greek words – Removes ambiguity of the Bible text

(word: Strong’s # Greek pronunciation — definition)

give:  G1325   δίδωμι   did’-ō -mee  — A primary verb: to give

turn away:  G654  ἀποστρέφω  ap-os-tref’-ō  — to turn away or back

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application and please share it in the comments

Change your attitude!  Within your means give freely to those who ask while expecting nothing in return. Likewise within your means, consider allowing people to borrow from you for their needs with only modest or no interest.  In this way you will be a blessing to many.

RETURN TO COMMAND

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Go With Him Two

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments

Mt 5:41 “Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.”

Summary Notes
Say What?!

A Roman soldier had authority to press a subject into service such as when Simon of Cyrene was forced  to carry Jesus’ cross in Matthew 27:32.  By law a non-citizen could be pressed into carrying a load for a soldier up to one Roman mile. Jesus said if this happens to you then give more and go two miles instead of one.  This command is where we get the saying to “Go the extra mile.” 

Why would He say this?

I do not think Jesus is telling His followers that they must do whatever anyone tells them to do and more. This command  speaks about my personal attitude, highlighting what seems to be a natural

Photo: Dawn Carlson Burce Lee’s quote is inspiring. In the context of this command I think the quote reminds me to consider that I do not have to limit myself to the minimum expectation. About the light: If you’ve visited Mackinac Island then the Round Island Passage light might be familiar to you. Click the link to find out why I like lighthouses: Why a Lighthouse? See the Photo Gallery for this and other images.

contempt or disdain for authority.  I think Jesus is telling me that when I’m told to do something that I don’t want to do by my boss at work or an officer of the law that I need to check my attitude.  What might happen if I cheerfully did what I was told to do and more?  

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my FULL NOTES and references…

COMMAND 17: ”…go with him two.”

Mt 5:41

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. 2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT: A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount 

Mt 5:38-40 “You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’  39“But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.  40If anyone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak also.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT:  

Mt 5:41 “Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.”

RESULT:   No stated result except for two chapters later when Jesus came down from the mountain

Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:

The saying, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH,’ comes from Old Testament Law in the context of judicial investigation and judgment

Ex 21:23-25  “But if there is any further injury, then you shall appoint as a penalty life for life,  24eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,  25burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.

Lv 24:19-20 ‘If a man injures his neighbor, just as he has done, so it shall be done to him:  20fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth; just as he has injured a man, so it shall be inflicted on him.

Dt 19:18-21 “The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is a false witness and he has accused his brother falsely, 19then you shall do to him just as he had intended to do to his brother. Thus you shall purge the evil from among you.  20“The rest will hear and be afraid, and will never again do such an evil thing among you. 21“Thus you shall not show pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.

Don’t misconstrue this command to think Jesus is telling His followers that they must do whatever anyone tells them to do and more.  A Roman soldier had authority to press a subject into service such as when Simon of Cyrene was pressed into service to carry Jesus’ cross in Matthew 27:32. This command  speaks about my personal attitude, highlighting what seems to be a natural contempt or disdain for authority.

DEFINITIONS: Key Greek words – Removes ambiguity of the Bible text

(word: Strong’s # Greek pronunciation — definition)

forces:  G29  ἀγγαρεύω  ang-ar-yew’-ō  — properly to be a courier, that is, (by implication) to press into public service

go:  G5217  ὑπάγω  hoop-ag’-ō   — to lead (oneself) under, that is, withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight)

mile: G3400   μίλιον  mil’-ee-on  — a thousand paces

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application and please share it in the comments

When someone in legitimate authority tells me to do something that is within their authority, generously do that something. Who knows, maybe something good will come of it.   

RETURN TO COMMAND

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Please share a comment, question or perhaps another application for this command of Jesus.

Let Him Have Your Coat Also

Matthew Sermon on the Mount 2 Comments

Mt 5:40 “If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.”

Summary Notes
Say What?!

Jesus said that if someone is trying to take the shirt off my back that I should just give him the shirt and my coat too.  Does Jesus mean that I should give away all my possessions to bullies?!

Why would He say this?
Photo by Dawn Carlson – The Keweenaw Upper Entrance Light in Lake Superior, like all lighthouses, facilitate the transportation of goods and services on the water. Paying what you owe and then some is the foundation of Capitalism. Nothing happens without capital (money) and nothing BIG happens with out a lot of money. In our system few people or businesses have enough money to prepay for everything they need to move goods and to pay people for their time and services. Businesses borrow what they need in the near certain hope that they will sell their goods and pay what they owe and still have a profit. Without the lighthouses over the last two centuries shipping would have been very fraught with peril and the progress and prosperity of our Great Lakes states and country would have been much slower. The quote is from Adam Smith (1723-1790) who was a moral philosopher and is known as the Father of Capitalism. Click the link to find out why I like lighthouses: Why a Lighthouse? See the Photo Gallery for this and other images. 

There is a principle of Jewish law that states punishment for violent acts be in kind such as , “AN EYE FOR AN EYE AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.”  In a previous post I pointed out that the context was of judicial proceedings but the people were using this principle in personal matters.  I think this command is about debts, perhaps both financial and otherwise, and about the likelihood of an imminent judicial ruling against me.  The command also has implications about personal attitude.

There is no reason to think that this opponent is suing for my shirt unrighteously.  If I have wronged someone and they have a legitimate case against me then Jesus’ command has profound implications. 

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes.  By the way, I’ve reprinted some interesting comments that you can see if you scroll down there…

Command 16: “…let him have your coat also.”
REFERENCE:  

Mt 5:40  also Lk 6:29

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying,

CONTEXT: A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount 

Mt 5:38-39 “You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.‘  39But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT:  

Mt 5:40 “If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.”

RESULT:  

No stated result except for two chapters later when Jesus came down from the mountain

Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

COMMENT:  

The saying, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH,’ comes from Old Testament law (Ex 21:23-25, Lv 24:19-20, Dt 19:18-21).  In the previous post (BLOG 14 & 15) I pointed out that the context was of judicial proceedings but the saying was being misapplied to personal attitudes.  This command is about the threat of imminent judicial ruling and again has implications about personal attitude.

There is no indication that this opponent is going to law unrighteously.  There are a few potential implications if I’ve wronged someone:

1.  My attitude should be humble and not defensive.
2.  I should more than satisfy the restitution I owe.

If however, your opponent is going to court using lies, deceit or forgeries against you, consider the cost of going to court in a counter-suit to recover what is rightfully yours. Worse damage may be done to your family and fortune if you pursue the counter-suit.  It might be better to simply buy another coat and shirt and be at peace with the matter. Jesus did not mention what to do if your opponent was demanding your house or business. These items matter to your family and livelihood and you might need to approach such a problem differently.

DEFINITIONS:  Key Greek Words

sue:  G2919  κρίνω  kree’-nō   —  Properly to distinguish, that is, decide (mentally or judicially); by implication to try, condemn, punish

take:  G2983  λαμβάνω  lam-ban’-ō  — A primary verb:  to take

have:  G863  ἀφίημι  af-ee’-ay-mee  — To send forth

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application and please share it in the comments

 If I’ve wronged someone, my attitude toward them should be humble.  I should more than satisfy my debt to them if possible.

RETURN TO COMMAND

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Please share a comment, question or perhaps another application for this command of Jesus.

Do Not Resist and Turn the Other

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary Notes
Say What?!

Jesus said to not resist an evil person and to allow

Photo by Dawn Carlson     The waves crash up into the Manistee Lighthouse when the wind blows.  Surprised by bad weather, many captains have saved their ship by turning into the deeper water and riding out the storm.  This is like turning the other cheek when faced with further injury.  However when the storm is truly horrific deeper water is no shelter.  In these cases fleeing to a safe harbor like Manistee is the best course of action.   Like most of life wisdom in the circumstances is vitally important to a good outcome.

someone to slap you again if they did it once. He said this in contrast to ancient Jewish law that states a  person found guilty of injuring another person must be punished in the same manner with which he or she inflicted damage.  The punishment was an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

Why would He say this?

The context for punishing the guilty person was of judicial investigation and conviction.  Jesus’ command to not resist an evil person has the context of personal application. I think that He points out how inappropriate it is for people to personally apply the “eye for eye, tooth for tooth” principle.  The reason why is because the principle it is meant to be applied as a matter of law. 

Jesus then addresses a person’s’ private attitude involving humility and meekness (power under control). Jesus is not stating that moral evil or oppression are to be ignored.  Bible scholars say that the “evils” spoken of here are not necessarily morally evil but are difficult, humbling or uncomfortable.  I think that in today’s culture slapping someone in the face is morally wrong and especially if that someone is an authority figure; but this was not always the case in the culture of Israel, a Roman vassal state, where Jesus was speaking.  This command is about willing submission under authority even if it is painful or toilsome (but not wrong). This response is not my natural inclination – but the opposite!

There is nothing in this command to stop a person from creatively working to change the situation to make it better.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes

 

12 “…do not resist an evil person…”
13 “…turn the other to him also.”

Mt 5:39

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain:

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT:   A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount:  

Mt 5:38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’”

COMMAND FULL TEXT:  Mt 5:39 “But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.”

RESULT:   No stated result except for two chapters later:

Mt 8:1 When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:

The saying, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH,’ comes from Old Testament law.

Ex 21:23-25  “But if there is any further injury, then you shall appoint as a penalty life for life,  24eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,  25burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.

Lv 24:19-20 ‘If a man injures his neighbor, just as he has done, so it shall be done to him:  20fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth; just as he has injured a man, so it shall be inflicted on him.

Dt19:18-21 “The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is a false witness and he has accused his brother falsely, 19then you shall do to him just as he had intended to do to his brother. Thus you shall purge the evil from among you.  20“The rest will hear and be afraid, and will never again do such an evil thing among you.  21“Thus you shall not show pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.

In each of these Old Testament verses the context was of judicial investigation and proceedings.  Jesus’ command in Matthew 5:39 has the context of personal application. He points out the inappropriate personal application of this matter of law.  Jesus then addresses a person’s’ private attitude involving humility and meekness (power under control). Jesus is not stating that moral evil or oppression are to be ignored.  I think that in today’s culture slapping someone in the face is morally wrong; but this was not always the case in the culture of Israel, a Roman vassal state, where Jesus was speaking.  This command is about willing submission under authority even if it is painful or toilsome (but not wrong). There is nothing in this command to stop a person from creatively working to change the situation to make it better.

The “evils” spoken of here are not necessarily morally evil but are painful, humbling or uncomfortable for us. The responses that Jesus commands are not our natural inclination – but the opposite!  This command is difficult for me to reconcile.  It’s not human nature to tolerate an insult let alone an assault.  Perhaps the idea here is to think first about what just happened and why before reacting to it.  

DEFINITIONS: Key Greek words 

(word: Strong’s # Greek pronunciation — definition)

evil person:  G4190  πονηρός   pon-ay-ros’   —  hurtful in effect or influence but not evil in essential character, nor degeneracy

slaps:  G4474  ῥαπίζω   hrap-id’-ō  —   to slap with the palm of the hand

turn:  G4762  στρέφω   stref’-ō  —  to (literally or figuratively twist that is to turn quite around or reverse

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application and please share it

I must be mature by having the strength of character to consistently demonstrate a private attitude of humility.  I need to think honestly about why this person is acting badly toward me and perhaps work to make situations better rather than just reacting with bad behavior myself.

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Follow-up to Make No Oath

Follow-up Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments

My purpose in posting this follow-up and others is to demonstrate how I am applying Jesus’ command to my own life.  My  hope is that you will be encouraged to find a practical application for yourself.   

What Jesus Said to Do
Photo by Dawn Carlson    At night the Frankfort light is white and the nearby harbor lights have distinct flash patterns. The lights are a metaphor for yes (on) or no (off)  A mariner will recognize the lights as the Frankfort Harbor and no other because of the faithfulness of it’s “yes” and “no” communication.  I am not a mechanical beacon but I also am known for the faithfulness of my communication. What I mean is that I could be a lot more consistent to do what I say that I will do.  Lou Holtz quote is remarkably appropriate. This image and more can be found in the blog Photo Gallery.Photo Gallery.

Jesus said to make no oath but simply use “YES” or “NO.” An oath is typically a promise that invokes a divine consequence if broken.  

Say Yes or No and Mean It

This is something I really have to improve and I have a couple of examples to share.

Just last week I made a tentative appointment with my sister to meet. When circumstances came up that completely changed my week, I forgot about that appointment. She was very gracious, of course.  Fortunately I don’t do that sort of thing very often. But when I do, I don’t like myself for it.

Something I do quite often is to be late. I habitually depart for appointments with just enough time to be a few minutes late. The solution to this is what I call ”stupid simple!” All I have to do is leave in time to be 10 minutes early; but up till now I just don’t do it.

My Challenge

This week I will concentrate on how to be 10 minutes early for every appointment that is not work related. For work I need to be early but no more than five minutes early. This will be a good goal.  I’ll welcome anyone to check up on how I’m doing! 

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Make No Oath

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary Notes
Make No Oath
With no oath, a lighthouse is faithful with its "yes" (on) and "no" (off) communication.
Photo: Dawn Carlson    At night the Tawas Point light is known to flash white for 4 seconds.  The light is metaphor for yes (on) or no (off)  A mariner will recognize the light as the Tawas Point light and no other because of the faithfulness of it’s “yes” and “no” communication.  I am not a mechanical beacon but I also am known for the faithfulness of my communication of “yes” and “no.”  I could be a lot more consistent to accomplish what I say that I will.  See the Why a Lighthouse page for my reasons for using lighthouses on this blog.

Jesus said to make no oath but simply use “YES” or “NO.” When He said this, He was talking about divorce and about breaking vows. Do not make an oath (a promise that invokes a divine consequence if broken) is the simple meaning.  The reason why I should not make an oath is because an oath is ultimately tied to God and may be impossible to keep due to circumstances.

Make No Promises

If I say “Yes” or “No” to someone , my word should be sufficient and I should do as I’ve committed.  There is no need for me to swear it upon my grandma’s grave, for instance.  I don’t hear this kind of talk much anymore; but I have heard people say such things.  I’ve also heard them say things like, “…as God is my witness,” or, “…trust me!”  Jesus is saying all such added words are not good.  Eventually, I will not be able to keep a promise.   

Although this verse is not specifically about business contracts, the principle of following through with business promises is certainly applicable.  Actually, following through with action on any commitment I’ve made is applicable.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes

 

12 “… make no oath at all …”
13 “But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ {or} ‘No, no’…”

Mt 5:34-37

CONTEXT:

Mt 5:31-33 “It was said, ‘WHOEVER SENDS HIS WIFE AWAY, LET HIM GIVE HER A CERTIFICATE OF DIVORCE’; 32but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for {the} reason of unchastity, makes her commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
33”Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, ‘YOU SHALL NOT MAKE FALSE VOWS, BUT SHALL FULFILL YOUR VOWS TO THE LORD.’“

RECIPIENT: To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain,

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. 2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:

Mt 5:34-37 “But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet, or by Jerusalem, for it is THE CITY OF THE GREAT KING. 36Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ {or} ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil.“

RESULT:

After Jesus concluded the sermon, two chapters later:
Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:

The verses immediately preceding this command are talking about marriage and divorce which is the breaking of a vow. Leviticus 19, Numbers 30 and Deuteronomy 23 state that a vow made to God is to be fulfilled. 

Lv 19:12 And you shall not swear by My name to a falsehood; nor shall you pollute the name of your God; I am Jehovah.

Nu 30:2 When a man vows a vow to Jehovah, or has sworn an oath to bind his soul with a bond, he shall not break his word; he shall do all that has gone out of his mouth.

Dt 23:21-23 “When you make a vow to the LORD your God, you shall not delay to pay it, for it would be sin in you, and the LORD your God will surely require it of you. 22“However, if you refrain from vowing, it would not be sin in you. 23“You shall be careful to perform what goes out from your lips, just as you have voluntarily vowed to the LORD your God, what you have promised.

This command is further instruction not to make promises with an oath because such an oath is ultimately tied to God and may be impossible to keep due to circumstances. Although this verse is not about business contracts, the principle of following through with business promises is certainly applicable.  Actually, following through with action on any commitment I’ve made is applicable.

DEFINITIONS: Key Greek words 

(word: Strong’s # Greek pronunciation — definition)

oath: G3660 ὀμνύω om-noo’-ō — to swear, that is, take (or declare an) oath

statement: G3056 λόγος log’-os — something said (including the thought)

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application

When I say that I will do something, then I must make all reasonable effort to fulfill my words. I will become known by friends, business associates and even family members by how well I follow through with actions.   No oath will suffice for action; so do not use an oath.  Additionally, I already have difficulty keeping all of my commitments. Therefore, I would do well to think about it first before I say “yes” too hastily.

RETURN TO COMMAND

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Tear It Out or Cut It Off and Throw It Far

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary Notes
Tear It Out – Cut It Out – Throw It Far
Photo by Dawn Carlson Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse was first lit in 1884. It remained in operation until it was abandoned 1955. Vandals ruined the lighthouse and campers eventually set it ablaze in 1984. If virtue is represented by the years the lighthouse was in operation then vice would be represented by the years the lighthouse was abandoned. While in operation the structure was magnificent; but after being abandoned and neglected for so long destruction has come to dominated. This image and more can be found in the Photo Gallery. Click on Why a Lighthouse? for an explanation about why I use lighthouses on this blog

Jesus said, that if your right eye or your right hand makes you stumble then physically removing that body part would be better than to keep it and to eventually suffer hell as a result. When He said this Jesus was speaking about stumbling morally into the temptation to commit adultery.   In later chapters He uses the same word picture regarding the corruption of minors.  Jesus used these intense word pictures to underscore the seriousness of both. 

Adultery is a Heart Issue

“You shall not commit adultery,” is from The Ten Commandments.  The eye and the hand refer to the senses of sight and touch in the context of adultery.  Jesus lowered the threshold for adultery from being a literal physical action to mere thought!  Because He said to the men in the crowd that even looking at a woman with lust for her is already committing adultery in his heart.

Do Not Mutilate Your Body

I do not think that Jesus was advocating that I should actually maim myself.  He was using a very graphic word picture to point out the seriousness of the problem.  If gouging out an eye or cutting off a hand would keep a person from committing offenses worthy of hell it would be a bargain exchange!  But it will not work because violating God’s Law starts in the heart and at that level no one is perfectly righteous.  James 2:10 states, “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one {point,} he has become guilty of all.”  A better solution to keep from stumbling and following through with overwhelming temptations will be to remove the temptation or to remove myself from the temptation if either are possible. 

Ultimate Solution

While I am trying to keep this blog from being overtly religious, I will at times point out unavoidable and obvious religious implications.  This is one of those times. Adultery is a heart issue and only a change in heart will cure this malady.  Becoming a Christian means that I receive God’s forgiveness for the wrong I’ve committed.  Becoming a Christian also means that I receive God’s Spirit who is able to change my heart and help me to be resolute.  Please see the the Gospel Message page for more information.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes 

COMMAND 10 “…tear it out and throw it from you…”
COMMAND 11 “…cut it off and throw it from you…”

Mt 5:29-30; See also in different context Mt 18:8, 9 and Mk 9:43, 45, 47

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.   2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT: A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount: 

Mt 5:27-28 “You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY’;  28but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:

Mt 5:29-30: “If your right eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you: for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30If your right hand makes you stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.”

RESULT:

After Jesus concluded the sermon, two chapters later:
Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:

“You shall not commit adultery,” is from The Ten Commandments found in Ex 20:14 and Dt 5:18.  Commands 10 and 11 are part of the same paragraph and refer to the senses of sight and touch in the context of adultery.  Adultery is the literal act of sexual intercourse with another person’s spouse.  Even with  today’s culture and values, most people have enough self control not to commit literal adultery.  Jesus’ command however, reduced the threshold for committing adultery (in God’s perspective) to the mere thought or intent of the heart!  In this light, pornography would fall under the category of adultery.

Jesus is not advocating that I maim myself in order to avoid hell.  He is graphically pointing out the seriousness of the problem.  If gouging out an eye or cutting off a hand would keep a person from hell it would be a bargain exchange!  But it will not work because there are an infinite number of ways to violate God’s Law and any one of them is serious enough.  James 2:10 states, “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one {point,} he has become guilty of all.”  Perhaps a better solution will be to remove the temptation or to remove yourself from the temptation if either are possible.

While I am trying to keep this blog from being overtly religious, I will at times point out unavoidable and obvious religious implications.  This is one of those times.

Christian Perspective:  

Adultery is a heart issue and only a change in heart will cure this malady.  Becoming a Christian means that I receive God’s forgiveness for the wrong I’ve committed.  Becoming a Christian also means that I receive God’s Spirit who is able to change my heart and help me to be resolute.  Please see the the Gospel Message page for more information.

DEFINITIONS: Key Greek words in Mt 5:29-30

(word: Strong’s #    Greek   pronunciation   — definition)  

stumble: G4624  σκανδαλίζω  skan-dal-id’-zō  —  to “scandalize”; to entrap or trip up

tear:  G1807  ἐξαιρέω  ex-ahee-reh’-ō  —  to tear out

cut:  G1581  ἐκκόπτω  ek-ko’p-tō  —  to cut out, cut off

throw:  G906  βάλλω  bal’-lō  —  to throw

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION:   I encourage you to make your own application

It may be impossible not to notice an attractive person when I see one.  However, my eyes do not need to linger on their form nor should my thoughts.   I can be strong and will remove my gaze; I will remember my vows and think about something more productive such as what I can do to make my spouse happy.

I think that for people who are already involved in an illicit relationship, Matthew 5:29-30 suggests that they act with immediacy to sever the offending relationship and with resolute finality remove themselves from that person.

RETURN TO COMMAND

 Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

“Make friends quickly …”

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary notes
Leave – Go – Be Reconciled – Make Friends

Jesus’ command to, “Make friends quickly with your opponent at law…” is part of the same paragraph as the command to, “…leave your offering …and go …be reconciled…”  Therefore the two ideas are related. 

Previous post link: Leave Your Offering and Go Be Reconciled

Broken Trust Requires Proof
Photo by Dawn Carlson – The Poverty Island Light Station near Green Bay was first lit in 1875. In 1885 a fog signal was added to give this light station a “voice.” Mariners passing by the dangerous Poverty Island Passage at night or in the fog quickly learned that this light station was a friend to them!  Joel Olsteen’s quote is so appropriate to remember when reconciling differences. What I say and how I say it are so important. This image and more can be seen in the Photo Gallery.

When I’ve wronged someone their trust in me is broken so that my words and promises become meaningless to them.   Its only logical that they need some proof of my sincerity.  Reconciling with some people may mean more than just me saying that I’m sorry; I may need to also offer some kind of tangible consideration.  By “consideration,” I mean paying back what I owe them or giving back what I took if possible.  If the offense was a relationship issue, then beyond humbly seeking forgiveness I might consider what actions I can take to demonstrate my sincerity.  I suppose there are innumerable ways to say, “I’m sorry” and to follow up with action. 

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes 

COMMAND 9: “Make friends quickly …”

Mt 5:25; Also see Lk 12:58 which is a similar command in a different context.

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain.

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT:  A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount: 

Mt 5:21-24 “You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’ 22“But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be  guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother,  ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says,  ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty {enough to go} into the fiery hell.  23Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:

Mt 5:25-26 “Make friends quickly with your opponent at law while you are with him on the way so that your opponent may not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown into prison.  26“Truly I say to you, you will not come out of there until you have paid up the last cent.”

RESULT: 

After Jesus concluded the sermon, two chapters later:
Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29 for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

COMMENT: 

This is practical information.  When I’ve wronged someone trust is broken so that my words and promises become meaningless unless there is proof of my sincerity.  Reconciling with some people will likely involve asking forgiveness and restitution or some other kind of tangible consideration if property or money was involved. Restitution may have many forms.  If the offense was a relationship issue then humbly seek forgiveness.  

DEFINITIONS:  Key Greek Words – Removes ambiguity of the Bible text

(word: Strong’s #    Greek   pronunciation   — definition)  

make:  G2468  ἴσθι  is’-thee  — an imperative, be thou  

friends:  G2132  εὐνόεω  yoo-no-eh’-ō  — to be well minded

quickly: G5035 ταχύ  takh-oo’  — shortly implying without delay, soon or suddenly

opponent at law:  G476  ἀντίδικος  an-tid’-ee-kos  —  an opponent in a lawsuit

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION:   I encourage you to make your own application

There is an old saying that, “Actions speak louder than words.”  I should be prepared to “make friends” when I go to reconcile with someone.  Perhaps I will consider how appropriate it would be to bring proof of my sincerity with actions and/or restitution.

RETURN TO COMMAND

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB.

Follow-up to Leave Your Offering and Go Be Reconciled

Follow-up Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
See the Blog Post
What Jesus Said to Do
Photo Artistry by Dawn Carlson    Ships that have come and gone past the Fort Gratiot lighthouse since 1829 often overcame obstacles.   Aside from weather, the channel from Lake Huron to the St. Clair River requires some tight turns in the current to proceed without damage. Reconciling with someone whom I’ve wronged can also have obstacles to overcome. Obstacles such as distance, cost, lost addresses, faulty memory and hurt feelings can make reconciliation even more difficult. Its best to think about it , seek some guidance and practice first!  I like Michael Jordan‘s quote because it applies to this AND so many situations of life! This image and more can be found in the Photo Gallery. Click on the image for an explanation Why a Lighthouse

Jesus said in Matthew 5:24, ”Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.”

What!?

This command of Jesus is from the first century but it still has a powerful message for today.  When someone came to the Jewish temple in the first century to seek God’s favor they brought something to offer.  But Jesus was telling His disciples that if they were seeking God’s favor with a guilty conscience then they would do well to reconcile first. God was and is not impressed with a fine gift if the giver is mean to people.  Besides that, we know that the effect of a guilty conscience on the mind and body is not good. Stress is the result and long term stress contributes to cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal and immunological disorders of the body and anxiety and depression of the mind.

Have you ever offended someone in a big way?

Have you ever done or said some things that you knew were wrong and it offended someone? I have, and it bothered me so that I was sorry about it. This command has through the years reminded me that I needed to try to make things right. With a lot of humble pie I’ve made some apologies and even asked forgiveness on occasion. A wise person told me to do this in person or with a phone call and never use a letter. Remarkably some folks I talked to didn’t remember the event. Others were quite gracious and accepted the apology. Either way, the times I’ve done this have indeed resulted in peace for me. It was like I had finally paid a debt and was free of it.

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

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