The phrase “turn the other cheek” comes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, found in the New Testament (Matthew 5:39). In this context, Jesus advocates for non-retaliation and forgiveness. The idea is to respond to aggression or insult not with revenge or anger but with a peaceful and humble attitude. Did Jesus mean we should humbly react to being attacked with love and forgiveness?
(Exodus 22:2-3)1NIV New International Version Translations – “If a thief is caught breaking in at night and is struck a fatal blow, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed; but if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed.”
The Old Testament Book of Exodus indicates that defending oneself against a thief is permissible, especially if the situation is life-threatening. Our Old Testament verse constrains the response to one of self-defense. There is a time limit to keep someone from the slippery slope of revenge. Jesus calls for rising above personal vendettas and conflicts, promoting a more compassionate and peaceful approach to dealing with others, transcending the cycle of violence, and seeking higher moral ground. Jesus did mean to encourage people to respond to offenses with grace and forgiveness rather than retaliation. Our Bible, however, has been consistent with the right of self-defense.
- Nehemiah 4:17-18: “Those who carried materials did their work with one hand and held a weapon in the other, and each of the builders wore his sword at his side as he worked.” This passage describes how the Israelites defended themselves while rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem.
- Luke 22:36: Jesus said, “But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.” This indicates that Jesus acknowledged the need for self-defense in certain situations.
- Proverbs 25:26: “Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked.” This proverb suggests that it is crucial to stand up against evil and not allow oneself to be overrun by it.
- Psalm 144:1: “Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.” This verse acknowledges that God prepares and equips His people for defense and battle.
While Jesus’ teachings often emphasize forgiveness, love, and non-retaliation, that doesn’t mean turning a blind eye to injustices. The concept of “turning the other cheek” is about avoiding personal vengeance and promoting peace on an individual level. Many of Jesus’ teachings and actions highlight the importance of standing up for the oppressed and seeking justice. The principle of “love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44) encourages understanding and compassion but doesn’t imply passivity in the face of wrongdoing. It’s about finding a balance—responding to personal offenses with grace while advocating for justice and protecting those who are vulnerable. Both victims and criminals are vulnerable. As in the case of the “Good Samaritan” (Luke 10:25-37), we have a responsibility to help those hurt by crime and hold those who commit crimes accountable for their actions (Romans 13:1-4). These passages highlight the importance of respecting and upholding the law, as well as the role of authorities in enforcing justice and holding wrongdoers accountable.
(Matthew 6:14-15) – “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Jesus’ teaching emphasizes the importance of forgiving as God has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32). It is a call to emulate God’s grace and mercy. Acts 3:19 states: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” God does not forgive the unrepentant sinner! Balancing forgiveness with the desire for justice is complex. Forgiving someone doesn’t mean excusing their wrongdoing. Romans 12:19 reminds us that vengeance belongs to God: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” We are called to trust God’s justice.
Praying for enemies is meant to change our perspective and restore broken relationships. It requires humility and grace. Proverbs 25:21-22 speaks of the power of kindness towards enemies: “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.” Jesus is about a transformation of heart, reliance on God’s strength, and a deep commitment to living out the principles of the Kingdom of God. While these commands are complex and demanding, they promise profound spiritual growth and reconciliation.
In conclusion, the Bible provides a balanced perspective on self-defense and justice. It acknowledges the right to defend oneself, one’s family, and nation, as seen in passages like Exodus 22:2-3 and Nehemiah 4:17-18. However, it also emphasizes that revenge and judgment belong to God alone, as highlighted in Romans 12:19. This duality encourages believers to protect themselves and their loved ones while trusting in God’s ultimate justice and refraining from personal vengeance. We can uphold God’s desires for justice and compassion by adhering to these principles.
Contemplations
- How does the concept of “turning the other cheek” align with the right to self-defense as presented in the Bible?
- Ideas to Explore: Consider the balance between Jesus’ teachings on non-retaliation and the Old Testament’s allowance for self-defense in life-threatening situations. Reflect on how these principles can be applied in modern-day scenarios where personal safety and moral integrity are at stake.
- In what ways does the Bible differentiate between self-defense and revenge?
- Ideas to Explore: Compare Exodus 22:2-3 and Nehemiah 4:17-18 with those that have you leave vengeance to God, like Romans 12:19. Think about the implications of these teachings for personal conduct and societal justice systems.
- How can believers reconcile the call to love and forgive their enemies with the need to hold wrongdoers accountable?
- Ideas to Explore: Compare Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness and love, such as Matthew 5:44 and Luke 6:27-28, in the context of maintaining justice and protecting the vulnerable. Consider the role of repentance and accountability in forgiveness, as highlighted in passages like Acts 3:19 and 1 John 1:9.
- 1NIV New International Version Translations