Retaliation & Loving Enemies

Scripture
[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, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. [40] And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. [41] And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. [42] Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.
[43] “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ [44] But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, [45] so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. [46] For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? [47] And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? [48] You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (ESV)
Engaging the Scripture
1. What was the purpose of the Old Testament Law regarding retaliation?
Why would this be important?
2. How did Jesus direct His followers to respond to aggression?
What was Jesus’ response to hostility toward himself?
What is the basic principle in each of these instances?
3. How does Jesus teaching about love your enemies demonstrate a higher expectation than practiced by the religious leaders of His day?
4. Proverbs 15:1 states “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” What does this add to our understanding of Jesus’ teaching?
Living as a Kingdom Citizen
1. What are some examples of abusive behavior or unjust treatment of others that you have observed? What are some examples of what you have experienced?
2. What is the natural reaction to such treatment?
3. How can we practically apply Jesus’ teaching in responding to unfair and unjust treatment?
4. What does it demonstrate when we choose to respond with compliance or with a “soft answer (Prov.15:1)?
What difference could this make in our society if more people more consistently chose a path of non-retaliation?
5. What is a biblical understanding of love?
6. What are some practical ways that we can “love our enemies”?