Matthew 5:38 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus references a well-known principle from the Old Testament often called the “law of retaliation” or lex talionis. This principle was intended to ensure justice by limiting retribution to be proportional to the offense. If someone caused harm, the punishment was to match the injury—an eye for an eye or a tooth for a tooth. However, Jesus is about to introduce a revolutionary way of responding to wrongdoing, one that prioritizes mercy, forgiveness, and love over exacting vengeance.
Historical Context
The “eye for an eye” principle comes from the Old Testament (Exodus 21:23-25, Leviticus 24:19-20). It was part of the legal system given to Israel to ensure fairness and prevent excessive punishment. It served as a guideline for judges to enforce justice. By Jesus’ time, however, some people had misapplied this law to justify personal vengeance rather than leaving judgment to the proper authorities. Jesus challenges this misapplication and shifts the focus from justice to grace in personal relationships.
Theological Implications
This verse sets the stage for Jesus to reveal a higher standard of righteousness. While justice is important, God’s kingdom calls His followers to go beyond retaliation and reflect His mercy and forgiveness. The principle of “eye for eye” was about limiting punishment, but Jesus introduces the idea that His followers should break the cycle of revenge altogether. This teaching reminds us that vengeance belongs to God (Romans 12:19) and that love triumphs over retribution.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “You have heard that it was said” introduces a pattern in the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus quotes the Law and then provides a deeper interpretation. The reference to “eye for eye” is concise and direct, immediately connecting with His audience’s understanding of justice. This structure allows Jesus to contrast human expectations with the radical values of God’s kingdom, which He explains in the verses that follow.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 21:23-25: The original command for proportional justice.
- Leviticus 19:18: “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself.”
- Romans 12:17-21: A call to overcome evil with good rather than seeking revenge.
- 1 Peter 3:9: “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse challenges the natural desire for revenge or getting even. It reminds believers that justice is God’s domain and that their role is to reflect His grace in personal relationships. This teaching encourages humility, patience, and forgiveness, even in the face of wrongdoing. It’s a call to trust God with justice while choosing to respond to others with love and mercy.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His desire for His people to live in peace and harmony, breaking free from cycles of revenge and hatred. By addressing the principle of retaliation, God calls His followers to reflect His character by responding to wrongdoing with grace and forgiveness. This approach promotes healing and reconciliation, reflecting God’s love for all people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate example of breaking the cycle of retaliation. When He was insulted, beaten, and crucified, He did not seek revenge but entrusted Himself to God’s justice (1 Peter 2:23). His sacrifice on the cross demonstrates the power of love and forgiveness, even in the face of the greatest injustice. By following His example, believers can reflect His character in their relationships and bring glory to God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge your natural response to being wronged?
- Are there situations in your life where you struggle with the desire for revenge or retaliation?
- How can you rely on God’s justice and choose grace instead of seeking to get even?
- What does Jesus’ example of forgiveness and love teach you about responding to wrongdoing?
- How can breaking the cycle of retaliation bring peace and healing in your relationships?
This verse invites believers to move beyond the human desire for revenge and embrace the values of God’s kingdom, where mercy and forgiveness take priority. It challenges Christians to trust in God’s justice and reflect His love, even in difficult situations.