thinking bible.

You asked

how can this teaching be applied to conflicts between groups, not just individuals?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Matthew 5:38-39

“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you, don’t resist him who is evil; but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.

This passage is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, where he is teaching his disciples and a larger crowd about what it means to live as part of God's kingdom. He is challenging traditional interpretations of the law, encouraging a radical ethic of love and non-retaliation.

what might be the social costs and transformative potential of choosing non-retaliation when an entire group feels wronged?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Romans 12:17-21

    Paul echoes Jesus' teaching on non-retaliation and overcoming evil with good.

  • Proverbs 25:21-22

    This proverb advises generosity towards an enemy, hinting at a similar ethos before Jesus.

  • 1 Peter 3:8-9

    Peter encourages believers to bless rather than retaliate, seeking peace and unity.

Ask your own follow-up