A Reflection On Doing Good

When I encounter an offensive person

Surely Jesus means for us to resist evil. We are encouraged—even commanded—at several points in Scripture to stand firm against the evil one. So what does He mean when He tells us in the Sermon on the Mount not to resist an evil person? He means that when people confront us, we are to counter evil with good (Romans 12:21). Mercy triumphs over judgment (James 2:13, NIV). Evil aggression is never defeated by an evil response.

What is your reaction to evil and offensive people? No, God does not tell you to be a doormat. He does, however, tell you to demonstrate a goodness that surpasses anything this world has known. Give evil people a glimpse of heaven and do more than what is right. Do not fall to their level; we were born from a much higher source. Let them see it and be amazed.

You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also.

Matthew 5:38-39