Is this the reasoning behind Jesus’ command to turn the other cheek and go the extra mile? The context would seem to imply it but this has some serious differences. Jesus is talking about how be act when we are the weak party. Here is addressing the opposite case. In both situations we are to treat them with courtesy but our motivation is different.
In both cases there is a kind of reverse psychology involved. Actually it isn’t psychology it is philosophy. The world says revenge is acceptable. The world says it is understandable. The world says certain behaviors are normal. The Bible says it is wrong.
We are to always follow what has come to be called the Golden Rule.
(Matthew 7:12 KJV) Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.It is the practical application of the love of God in our hearts. We may have people who are our enemies but we cannot treat them that way. We may have people who take advantage of us but for us, turn-about may be fair play but it is still sin.
So? You want easy? I can’t give it to you. All I can give you is holy and loving. Actually, God gives it and wants you to pass it on.
2 comments:
I've always had a little trouble with this, as it seems to advocate doing well AS a form of revenge. (Treat him right so God will "zap" him.) I've assumed there was something that I was missing.
I don't think of it as revenge, after all, I am doing nothing but being obedient. I think it is more of a self imposed suffering because it grates on them to see me doing well. It is their problem not mine.
Grace and peace.
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