1. Matthew 5:41 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What does Jesus mean when he says that believers must go two miles?

Matthew 5:41 (ESV)

41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.

In the context of conscripted service, Jesus encourages his followers to do good to those who force them into unwanted tasks. Not only must they submit to unjust demands but exceed them by showing love to an oppressor. 1 He is not limiting his followers to only going one extra mile, but establishing a principle that kingdom citizens must seek to do good to all people, even to those who do them wrong and make their life difficult. Vengeance and retribution must not be the first thought of kingdom people.