We come to this teaching of Jesus Christ in Matthew Chapter 5 and at verse 42. Give to the one who asks. Do not run away from the one who wants to borrow. There may be some unknown reason, as to why someone wants to borrow.
Do not stand on your dignity. Jesus is asking for more than mere non-retaliation. Take positive steps. Be actively generous. It is all so very personal.
This is how we, as disciples of Jesus, can become the salt and the light. We cannot apply this to others.
Jesus is challenging the social trends. These can go against the grain.
We may even think that the Sermon on the Mount is a bit much. This teaching appears to be to our disadvantage.Jesus is not denying the legitimate functions of the Courts. Jesus is speaking about our personal behaviour and reaction and witness as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Paul writes to the Romans in Chapter 12 verse 17 – Do not repay anyone evil for evil.
This is the way of the Cross and no one can live like this unless there is a new heart, and that heart which comes from being born again and that heart which seeks to remain filled with the Holy Spirit.
One word can help us here – character! Jesus Christ is developing our character.
Peter learned the lesson. This was the man who impetuously wanted to lift a sword, but turn to his writing in I Peter Chapter 2.
Time and time again this teaching in Matthew Chapter 5 is pointing us to the teacher.
Jesus allowed Himself to be cornered and scourged and crucified. Jesus is really speaking about dying to self, when we can receive no congratulations.
This radical transformation regarding our behaviour and attitude towards others is deeply challenging, and this does not guarantee that the behaviour of others towards us will be transformed. So what are we to do when wronged – when insulted – when someone is rude or worse to us? Jesus’ teaching is quite demanding, and it is not easy at all, even for us who claim to be his disciples and who are called to live and serve in this way.
Think of what Jesus is addressing here – our pride – our time – our possessions – our parting with money. Jesus Christ is taking the law of God to a deeper and higher level.
Maybe that is why this piece has a question for a title!
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