Facing someone who wrongfully sues or mistreats you requires a radical response - willingly giving up more than demanded. This act not only exposes the unjust behavior but also raises awareness by publicly shaming the perpetrator. By engaging in this extreme yet strategic act, one creates a scene to draw attention to the injustice that is being committed, making a powerful statement against wrongdoing.
Sermon on the Mount E15 – In Matthew 5:38-42, Jesus offers wisdom from the Torah about retaliation, justice, and nonviolent resistance to injustice. He references a series of laws in Exodus 21, Leviticus 24, and Deuteronomy 19, all of which contain the familiar language of “eye for eye, tooth for tooth.” Jesus reveals the surprising wisdom within these laws, using real-life scenarios that would have been familiar to oppressed Israelites living under Roman occupation: turning the other cheek, giving your cloak, and going the extra mile. In this episode, Jon, Tim, and Michelle discuss how these actions can open up our imaginations for boldly standing against injustice in creative, nonviolent ways.
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Timestamps
- Chapter 1: Cultural Background of “Eye for Eye” (00:00-20:45)
- Chapter 2: The Meaning of “Do Not Resist” (20:45-28:13)
- Chapter 3: Turn the Other Cheek (28:13-39:20)
- Chapter 4: Give Up Your Coat (39:20-45:30)
- Chapter 5: Go the Extra Mile (45:30-01:01:00)
Referenced Resources
Show Music
- Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen
- BibleProject theme song by TENTS
Show Credits
Jon Collins is the creative producer for today’s show, and Tim Mackie is the lead scholar. Production of today’s episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; Colin Wilson, producer; and Stephanie Tam, consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey, Frank Garza, and Aaron Olsen are our audio editors. Tyler Bailey is also our audio engineer, and he provided our sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones.
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