The Radical Way of Love: Matthew 5:38-48

Matt. 5:38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’

Matt. 5:39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

Matt. 5:40 If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.

Matt. 5:41 And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.

 In both cases you move from victim to a choice of loving patience.  

Matt. 5:42 Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.

Matt. 5:43 ¶ “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’

Matt. 5:44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,

Matt. 5:45 that you may be sons of your Father 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.

Matt. 5:46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

Matt. 5:47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?

Matt. 5:48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

A radical new way of living that defies human nature and the world’s standard. The early church lived it out and created the foundation for a worldwide movement.