Matthew·Chapter 5

How to Apply

This week, look for an opportunity to practice this teaching. If someone wrongs you—maybe a friend says something hurtful or a stranger is rude—try to respond with kindness instead of anger. Maybe it’s as simple as a calm conversation instead of a heated argument, or even just letting something slide that you’d typically react to. Challenge yourself to find a way to show compassion instead of retaliating. It may feel uncomfortable, but that’s where growth happens!

Chapter Context

This verse is part of a larger teaching where Jesus is laying out a whole new way of living—often referred to as the Sermon on the Mount. He’s addressing a crowd that’s used to the idea of ‘an eye for an eye.’ But here, He flips that expectation on its head! Just before this verse, He talks about loving your enemies and praying for those who hurt you. This moment is pivotal because it challenges the listeners to rethink how they respond to injustice and pain. After this, He continues to emphasize the importance of going beyond what’s expected, urging people to embrace a radical love. It’s a game-changer in the narrative of how we treat each other.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• but - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• i - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• say - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• you - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• resist - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• evil - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• but - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• if - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• anyone - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When faced with conflict or hurt, how can you actively choose a response that promotes peace instead of retaliation? What does that look like for you in real-life situations?

Related Verses

• Exodus 21:24 - This introduces the concept of 'an eye for an eye,' which Jesus challenges in this verse.
• Luke 6:29 - Here, Jesus reiterates the same idea of turning the other cheek, emphasizing love over revenge.
• Romans 12:17 - This encourages you not to repay evil for evil, aligning perfectly with the message of this verse.
• Matthew 7:12 - This is often called the Golden Rule, highlighting the importance of treating others how you want to be treated, which ties right into turning the other cheek.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Matthew 5:39. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Purpose

To show us who Jesus is, how to have a relationship with God, and how to live as followers of Christ in the world today.

Significance

The New Testament is where we meet Jesus personally and learn how His love changes everything! It shows us the fulfillment of God's promises and how to live in relationship with Him.