1. Matthew 5:39 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What does Jesus mean when he says that kingdom citizens must not resist an evil person?

Matthew 5:39 (ESV)

39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.

When evil is done to a kingdom citizen, his first thought must not be for revenge. He must not descend to the level of the aggressor and return evil for evil (Romans 12:17–21), but trust God to bring vengeance/justice in his time. Evil must be answered with good. This idea is anticipated elsewhere in Scripture (Leviticus 19:18; Deuteronomy 32:35; Proverbs 20:22; Proverbs 24:29; Proverbs 25:21–22; Isaiah 50:6; Lamentations 3:30). 1