The Narrow Way

One of the most challenging teachings of Jesus – is turning the other cheek.

In Matthew 5:39, Jesus said, “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”

This teaching seems to go against our natural instinct to defend ourselves when we are wronged. We live in a world where people are quick to take revenge and judge others. But Jesus’ words challenge us to take a different approach – one that is rooted in love, humility, and trust in God.

Turning the other cheek is not a sign of weakness or cowardice, but rather it is a display of strength and courage. It takes great courage to respond to an act of violence or injustice with love instead of retaliation. It takes great strength to refuse to repay evil for evil and instead trust in God’s justice and mercy.

When we turn the other cheek, we are following the example of Jesus, who Himself was unjustly accused, beaten, and crucified. Jesus could have easily defended Himself, but He chose to endure the suffering out of love for us. He prayed for His persecutors and forgave them, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

Turning the other cheek is also a sign of our trust in God’s sovereignty and justice. We do not need to take matters into our own hands because we know that God is ultimately in control. As Paul wrote in Romans 12:19, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

But turning the other cheek does not mean that we should be passive or complacent in the face of injustice. It does not mean that we should tolerate abuse or allow ourselves to be taken advantage of. It means that we should respond with love and humility, seeking to bring about reconciliation and forgiveness just as Jesus showed us as an example.