Matthew 5:39
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil; but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right check, turn to him the other also--Our Lord's own meek, yet dignified bearing, when smitten rudely on the cheek (Joh 18:22-23), and not literally presenting the other, is the best comment on these words. It is the preparedness, after one indignity, not to invite but to submit meekly to another, without retaliation, which this strong language is meant to convey.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I say unto you, that ye resist not evil,.... This is not to be understood of any sort of evil, not of the evil of sin, of bad actions, and false doctrines, which are to be opposed; nor of the evil one, Satan, who is to be resisted; but of an evil man, an injurious one, who has done us an injury. We must not render evil for evil, or repay him in the same way; see Jam 5:6. Not but that a man may lawfully defend himself, and endeavour to secure himself from injuries; and may appear to the civil magistrate for redress of grievances; but he is not to make use of private revenge. As if a man should pluck out one of his eyes, he must not in revenge pluck out one of his; or should he strike out one of his teeth, he must not use him in the same manner; but patiently bear the affront, or seek for satisfaction in another way. But whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also: which is to be understood comparatively, rather than seek revenge, and is directly contrary to the Jewish canons, which require, in such a case, a pecuniary fine (g). "He that strikes his neighbour (which Maimonides explains, he that strikes his neighbour with his hand shut, about the neck) he shall give him a "sela", or "shekel": R. Judah says, in the name of R. Jose the Galilean, one pound: if he smite him (i.e. as Maimonides says, if he smite him with his double fist upon the face; or, as Bartenora, with the palm of his hand, "on the cheek", which is a greater reproach) he shall give him two hundred "zuzim"; and if he does it with the back of his hand, four hundred "zuzim".'' R. Isaac Sangari (h) manifestly refers to this passage of Christ's, when he says to the king he is conversing with, "I perceive that thou up braidest us with poverty and want; but in them the great men of other nations glory: for they do not glory but in him, who said, "Whosoever smiteth thee thy right cheek, turn to him the left; and whosoever taketh away thy coat, give him thy cloak".'' (g) Misn. Bava Kama, c. 8. sect. 6. Vid. Maimon. & Bartenora in ib. (h) Sepher Cosri, Orat. 1. Sign. 113. fol. 56. 1.
Matthew 5:39
Love Your Enemies
38You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’39But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also;40if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well;
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Surrender or Else
By Warren Wiersbe5.6K38:41MAT 5:391PE 2:111PE 2:151PE 2:201PE 2:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose behind our actions and decisions. He challenges listeners to consider why they are in their current jobs, living in their current locations, and engaging in various activities. The speaker highlights the need for submission to God and the potential consequences of not submitting. He also discusses the significance of living a godly life and the approval of God that comes with it, using examples of slaves in the Roman Empire who were encouraged to be subject to their masters.
Covering the Face of Jesus
By Carter Conlon3.6K56:41CommitmentMAT 5:39MAT 6:33MAT 23:27MRK 14:60LUK 6:22ACT 2:37In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and grace of God in transforming lives. He speaks about the future kingdom where there will be no more sorrow, tears, or sighing. The preacher also addresses the experience of facing sudden violence and betrayal, even from those who claim to know Christ. He highlights the importance of living a righteous life and trusting in God's judgment. The sermon concludes with the assurance that God will ultimately swallow up death and bring victory, despite its presence in various aspects of life.
Intimate Union
By Art Katz3.6K35:43ReconciliationMAT 5:39MAT 22:37GAL 2:20EPH 5:31PHP 3:81JN 1:7REV 3:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of intimate union with Christ Jesus. He highlights the example of the apostle Paul, who considered everything else as loss compared to the knowledge and experience of being united with Christ. The speaker emphasizes that this union is not just a technical or superficial relationship, but a deep and vital joining with Christ in his suffering, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection. The speaker also mentions the need for self-denial and delayed gratification in our relationships, contrasting it with the casual and indifferent attitude many have towards God.
Eternal Values - Seeking God's Kingdom First
By Zac Poonen2.6K37:34EternityJOB 23:10ISA 49:23MAT 5:39ROM 8:281CO 6:11CO 6:61PE 3:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of learning to trust the Lord and standing on our own feet. He uses the analogy of being carried on a stretcher versus learning to walk and trust God. The speaker also highlights the need to prepare ourselves for the future by trusting God in times of ease and plenty. He gives the example of the disciples feeding the five thousand, where they served selflessly and were rewarded with baskets full of provisions. The sermon encourages listeners to trust God for their needs and not rely on earthly security systems. The speaker also mentions the importance of not engaging in arguments or fights with others, but instead following Jesus' example of speaking the truth in a spirit of love. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the verse in 1 Peter 3:13, which encourages believers that no harm will come to them if they are zealous for what is good.
Your Enemies Will Leave Suddenly and Ashamed
By Carter Conlon2.5K54:34Enemies2CH 32:14PSA 6:8PSA 6:10MAT 5:39MAT 6:33ACT 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that even righteous individuals can lose their discernment and be challenged by God. He highlights the importance of being able to hear the voice of God, even when one is off track. The preacher encourages believers to take their part in seeking God's guidance and to reject the influence of evil. He also emphasizes the need for the church to serve others and stand out from the ways of the world, ultimately pointing to the battle God has given David as an example of dwelling in the midst of God's people.
Seeking God for Power - Power to Love Until the End
By Zac Poonen2.4K59:21PowerMAT 5:39MAT 5:44JHN 7:38JHN 13:34ROM 5:51CO 13:2HEB 4:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of love and unity among believers. He challenges the idea that miracles and signs are the ultimate proof of being God's people. Instead, he argues that the greatest miracle is to love one another and remain in love until the end. The speaker references Jesus' example of loving his disciples until the very end and compares it to the miraculous act of raising the dead or healing the blind. He concludes that throughout the history of the church, the consistent and enduring love for one another is a greater miracle than any supernatural sign.
Let the Righteous Smite Me
By Carter Conlon2.1K53:29ReproachPSA 145:2PRO 26:27MAT 5:39ROM 8:28In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the theme of freedom in Christ. He encourages the congregation to rejoice in their freedom from the devil's influence and to boldly proclaim their freedom. The preacher also discusses the concept of the deeper life of Christ, highlighting the importance of trusting God and not resisting evil. He uses the examples of Joseph and David from the Bible to illustrate how they chose to trust God in difficult situations and became recipients of His deep resources. The sermon concludes with a reminder that many destinies are decided when believers encounter unrighteous behavior from fellow believers, and it is crucial to respond with trust in God rather than succumbing to bitterness or anger.
The Radical Kingdom - Part 1
By Art Katz1.7K1:21:17Kingdom Of GodPSA 119:1PSA 119:105ISA 2:2MAT 5:39ACT 17:31In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing two contrasting worldviews: one that is fear-centric and believes in the presence of God, and another that is secular and believes in a random world without God. The speaker argues that the church has lost sight of its mission to fulfill the dominion mandate and bring the knowledge of God to the nations. This lack of understanding has resulted in lackluster services and a failure to fully engage in the work of the church. The speaker also criticizes the escapist mentality of many Christians who are focused on being raptured and avoiding suffering, rather than embracing their role in the world.
(Pure Testimony) God Looks for Wholehearted People
By Zac Poonen1.7K57:56PurityMAT 5:27MAT 5:39MAT 5:44MAT 7:1MAT 7:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a serious Christian and not just attending conferences and listening to great messages. He highlights the concept of discipleship and the narrow gate that leads to a true Christian life. The speaker emphasizes the need for genuine reactions and treating others with love and respect. He also emphasizes the importance of building local bodies of believers and being committed to Jesus and one another.
The Horizon of Christ - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K44:09ChristGEN 22:2MAT 5:39ACT 4:13ROM 12:191CO 1:272CO 12:9PHP 2:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the transformation that occurred in the early members of the church when the power of God came down from heaven. The idea of weakness and being put to death was initially resented by these men, but when they witnessed the boldness of Peter and John after receiving the power of God, they were completely defeated in their attempts to explain and understand. The speaker emphasizes that this power came from heaven and completely changed the standard of values and ideas about power for these men. The sermon also highlights the importance of not attributing any glory to man, but rather giving all glory to God.
Spirituality: Yes in Christ
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:19:43ChristMAT 5:392CO 1:152CO 1:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that true life is found in Christ and not in our own efforts. He explains that when we read the Word of God, it is the Holy Spirit who opens our eyes and reveals its truth to us. The speaker shares an example of a sister who attended a conference to learn how to live a victorious life, but it was only when she heard a message on Romans 6 to 8 that she truly understood the way to victory. The speaker emphasizes that spiritual life is not just knowing about Christ or his teachings, but it is having Christ in us and experiencing his reality.
Hanging in There
By Jim Cymbala1.4K19:15EnduranceMAT 5:39ROM 12:12GAL 5:22COL 1:11In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and allowing His presence to empower us to endure difficult situations with joy and gratitude. He highlights the fact that we can choose not to let obnoxious people affect us and instead respond with patience and joy. The pastor uses an illustration of a conversation with a shy woman to illustrate the need to overcome negative circumstances and not let them discourage us. He also mentions that patience is often tested by people who try our patience, and encourages the audience to endure with thanksgiving and joy, especially during holiday seasons.
Developing a Warrior Mentality
By Michael L. Brown1.3K49:38EXO 15:3JOS 1:9MAT 5:39MAT 5:44ROM 15:302TI 2:3REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the spiritual battle that believers are engaged in. He highlights the urgency of sharing the gospel and interceding for those who are suffering and oppressed. The preacher encourages listeners to embrace the burden of the Lord and to pray fervently, even for seemingly unrelated situations. The sermon also references the book of Revelation, highlighting the ongoing war between good and evil and the ultimate triumph of God. The preacher cautions against being complacent or unaware of the spiritual forces at work and emphasizes the importance of staying anchored in holiness and devotion to God.
The Anabaptist Vision
By Dean Taylor1.3K1:00:25MAT 5:39Harold S. Bender's sermon on The Anabaptist Vision delves into the essence of Anabaptism during the Reformation, emphasizing salvation as Christ-like followers, separation of church and state, and church life as a brotherhood. Anabaptists rejected faith without a transformed life, practiced radical separation from the world, and viewed the church as a community of born-again saints. The sermon highlights discipleship as key in Anabaptist theology, their opposition to scribes and Pharisees-like faith, and their commitment to a church established on faith and lived out in reality.
Message 2 of 5 - New Zealand
By Keith Daniel1.1K1:11:20New ZealandJER 32:10MAL 2:14MAT 5:39MAT 19:6ROM 12:21EPH 5:221PE 2:23In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a couple who defused a potential argument by showing love and kindness to one another. He then transitions to another story about a young boy who realizes the value of education and regrets not knowing more about God earlier in life. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of finding happiness in marriage through a relationship with Christ. He concludes by discussing the need to respond to mistreatment with grace and love, in order to win others over to Christ.
A Time to Be Silent
By Keith Daniel9411:14:04SilencePSA 141:3PRO 15:23ISA 53:7MAT 5:392CO 12:9JAS 1:191PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of words and the destructive impact they can have on others. He shares a personal story of witnessing a man's life being destroyed by a single sentence spoken by a young person. The preacher warns against the danger of gossip and slander, highlighting the devastating consequences it can have on individuals and their families. He urges listeners to be mindful of their words and to seek God's grace in all circumstances, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commandments.
The Power of the Antichrist
By Danny Bond61245:39MAT 5:39MAT 10:282PE 3:9REV 13:9REV 13:12REV 20:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the ultimate world power as described in the book of Revelation. He describes a beast rising out of the sea with seven heads and ten horns, symbolizing a powerful and evil figure empowered by Satan. This beast conquers the whole world and is worshipped by many. The preacher emphasizes that this ultimate world power is a counterfeit to God's sovereignty and warns of the ultimate persecution that will occur under this power.
Jesus Training the 12 - Bill Mcleod
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons29136:23RadioISA 45:18MAT 5:10MAT 5:39MAT 5:41MAT 6:4MAT 7:6MAT 7:24MAT 10:14MAT 10:22MAT 10:32MAT 10:38MAT 16:24MAT 20:26MAT 23:13MRK 1:4MRK 1:15JHN 8:12In this sermon, Phil McLeod discusses the training of the Twelve disciples by Jesus. He emphasizes the uniqueness of the Earth as the theater of the universe and the place where Jesus came to be the light of the world. Jesus taught the disciples important principles such as fasting and giving in secret, building on a solid foundation, and preaching repentance. The disciples also witnessed Jesus performing miracles, reading people's minds, and raising the dead. Additionally, Jesus publicly condemned false teachings, a practice that is unpopular among preachers today.
A Simple Remedy
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 5:391CO 6:18EPH 6:11EPH 6:131TI 6:112TI 2:22HEB 2:14JAS 4:71PE 5:91JN 4:4The preacher delves into the meaning of 'Resist' (anthistemi) in the Bible, emphasizing the call to stand firm against evil, opposition, and the devil. Believers are urged to actively oppose pressure, withstand attacks, and take a defensive stance against the enemy's schemes. Through various verses, the urgency and importance of resisting effectively are highlighted, with a focus on submitting to God, resisting the devil, and standing firm in faith. The sermon underscores the need for believers to rely on God's strength, put on the full armor of God, and combat spiritual battles with faith, prayer, and obedience to His Word.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Slabler! - Part 1
By Leonard Verduin0MAT 5:39LUK 14:23JHN 18:362CO 3:17GAL 5:1Leonard Verduin delves into the historical context of the Constantinian change, highlighting the introduction of coercion into the Church's affairs and the subsequent loss of voluntaryism in the cause of Christ. He explores the resistance of the 'heretics' who advocated for voluntaryism and opposed coercionism, symbolized by carrying harmless staffs. Verduin contrasts the ideologies of coercionism versus voluntaryism, tracing the roots of this theological debate from early times through the Reformation era. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the Church's transition from a voluntary association to a mass held together by the symbol of coercion, shedding light on the struggles faced by Reformers in choosing between 'Christian sacralism' and the rebellion against it.
He Answered Nothing
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 46:10MAT 5:9MAT 5:39MRK 15:31PE 2:23Charles E. Cowman preaches about the powerful example of Jesus remaining silent in the face of false accusations and mistreatment, showcasing the strength found in stillness and trust in God's provision and defense. He emphasizes the importance of letting go of self-vindication and allowing God to intercede on our behalf, leading to a spirit of conquered peace and a lasting impact on others. The sermon highlights the need to emulate Christ's quiet strength in the midst of conflicts and differences, seeking to see the face of Christ in those we disagree with for a testimony that reflects His saving grace.
Persecution
By Oswald Chambers0MAT 5:39LUK 18:31ACT 6:8ACT 26:142CO 5:14Oswald Chambers preaches about persecution and the challenges faced by Christians who stand firm in their faith, using the example of Stephen who faced false accusations and persecution for his unwavering faith and wisdom. Chambers emphasizes the importance of carrying the kingdom of God within, even in times of destitution and loneliness, and finding joy in persecution for the sake of Christ. He also discusses the humiliation and humility of being a Christian, highlighting the need to exhibit the character of Jesus when faced with insults and personal attacks.
Matthew 5:38-42. Christ Forbids Revenge.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0EXO 21:24LEV 19:17MAT 5:39MAT 6:14JHN 18:23ROM 12:17EPH 4:32COL 3:131PE 2:23Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the true meaning behind 'an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth,' emphasizing that it was a rule of punishment for civil authorities, not a call for personal revenge. Jesus corrected the Pharisees' misunderstanding, teaching that we should endure personal injuries without retaliation, rebuking with gentleness when necessary. The spirit of the command is to willingly yield our rights and focus on our duties towards others rather than fixating on our own rights, leading to peace and avoiding sinful responses to mistreatment. Mortimer highlights the importance of reflecting on our own behavior towards God, who has shown us unparalleled grace despite our ingratitude and disobedience.
In His Steps
By Richard E. Bieber0MAT 5:39LUK 23:34JHN 10:11HEB 13:201PE 2:211PE 2:241JN 1:8Richard E. Bieber preaches about the transformative power of following in Jesus' steps, emphasizing the need to turn away from sin, deceit, and threats, and instead trust in God's just judgment. He highlights how Jesus' suffering on the cross was not only for our salvation but also to set an example for us to imitate. By partaking in communion, believers are united with Christ's sacrificial death and empowered to minister life to others through their own suffering, ultimately leading lost souls back to the Shepherd of their souls.
The "Robbers"
By Robert Wurtz II0MAT 5:39MAT 5:41MRK 12:17MRK 14:48MRK 15:7JHN 18:40Robert Wurtz II delves into the significance of the term 'Robbers' in the context of the Jewish Freedom Movement, shedding light on the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion. Jesus' teachings opposed the Zealots' doctrines, emphasizing love, submission to authority, and non-resistance to evil, which directly conflicted with the Zealot cause. The misinterpretation of Messianic prophecies by the Zealots serves as a cautionary tale for believers today, urging them to be cautious about dogmatically predicting the timing of the Lord's return and avoiding personal agendas. Through the example of Barabbas, who was released instead of Jesus, the sermon explores the profound irony of Jesus dying for the sins He preached against, highlighting the sacrificial nature of His death.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil; but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right check, turn to him the other also--Our Lord's own meek, yet dignified bearing, when smitten rudely on the cheek (Joh 18:22-23), and not literally presenting the other, is the best comment on these words. It is the preparedness, after one indignity, not to invite but to submit meekly to another, without retaliation, which this strong language is meant to convey.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I say unto you, that ye resist not evil,.... This is not to be understood of any sort of evil, not of the evil of sin, of bad actions, and false doctrines, which are to be opposed; nor of the evil one, Satan, who is to be resisted; but of an evil man, an injurious one, who has done us an injury. We must not render evil for evil, or repay him in the same way; see Jam 5:6. Not but that a man may lawfully defend himself, and endeavour to secure himself from injuries; and may appear to the civil magistrate for redress of grievances; but he is not to make use of private revenge. As if a man should pluck out one of his eyes, he must not in revenge pluck out one of his; or should he strike out one of his teeth, he must not use him in the same manner; but patiently bear the affront, or seek for satisfaction in another way. But whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also: which is to be understood comparatively, rather than seek revenge, and is directly contrary to the Jewish canons, which require, in such a case, a pecuniary fine (g). "He that strikes his neighbour (which Maimonides explains, he that strikes his neighbour with his hand shut, about the neck) he shall give him a "sela", or "shekel": R. Judah says, in the name of R. Jose the Galilean, one pound: if he smite him (i.e. as Maimonides says, if he smite him with his double fist upon the face; or, as Bartenora, with the palm of his hand, "on the cheek", which is a greater reproach) he shall give him two hundred "zuzim"; and if he does it with the back of his hand, four hundred "zuzim".'' R. Isaac Sangari (h) manifestly refers to this passage of Christ's, when he says to the king he is conversing with, "I perceive that thou up braidest us with poverty and want; but in them the great men of other nations glory: for they do not glory but in him, who said, "Whosoever smiteth thee thy right cheek, turn to him the left; and whosoever taketh away thy coat, give him thy cloak".'' (g) Misn. Bava Kama, c. 8. sect. 6. Vid. Maimon. & Bartenora in ib. (h) Sepher Cosri, Orat. 1. Sign. 113. fol. 56. 1.