We love the idea of revenge, as indicated by popular movies and shows. God instead loves mercy and Jesus even teaches us to love our enemies.

Notes And Next Steps

Matthew 5:38-45 + Part 7 of the series “Vivid"

We love the idea of revenge. It appeals to our sense of retributive justice and fairness—that everyone finally gets what they deserve.

“Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.” (Matthew 5:38)

The command was given for specific legal situations.

“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” (Matthew 5:39-42)

Go the extra mile.

Mercy costs us something. Revenge makes others pay.

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love … he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. (Psalm 103:8,10)

God is slow to avenge.

SPIRITUAL NEXT STEP: Covid is dividing people into enemy camps. What if you change your opinion, not so much about Covid, but about those who think differently about it than you do. This week, which of these words of Jesus can you put into practice to take this spiritual step as a child of God?

Discussion Questions

1. Share an experience, as a parent or child, when your family dealt with the tension between discipline and mercy. Would you do it any differently? Why or why not?
2. Your friend reads these words of Jesus and comments that God is becoming soft on evil. How do you respond? Discuss Romans 12:17-21.
3. What makes mercy so hard for us? For God? Refer to Psalm 103.
4. Covid is dividing people into enemy camps. What if you change your opinion, not so much about Covid, but about those who think differently about it than you do. This week, which of these words of Jesus can you put into practice to take this spiritual next step as a child of God?