June 22, 2025

Eye for Eye

Preacher:
Passage: Matthew 5:38-42, Matthew 5:3, Matthew 5:10-12, Exodus 21:23-25, Leviticus 24:20, Deuteronomy 19:21, Exodus 18, John 18:21-23

In this sermon on Matthew 5:38-42, we're challenged to radically transform our approach to conflict and injustice. The familiar phrase 'an eye for an eye' is reframed, calling us to a higher standard of love and self-denial. We're urged to 'turn the other cheek' - not as a sign of weakness, but as a demonstration of inner strength rooted in our identity in Christ. This teaching invites us to examine our hearts: How do we respond when we're insulted or mistreated? Do we seek revenge, or do we embody Christ's love? The message reminds us that our value comes from God, not from how others treat us. It's a call to live as Kingdom people, responding to evil with good, and trusting in God's justice rather than our own. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to let go of our self-justifying tendencies and embrace a life of radical grace and mercy.