On Line Bible Study - For the Week May 24-30, 2010
Lesson 441
Luke 6: 29If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.
Perhaps it seems we are trying to cut this too fine; however, some important issues have to be dealt with regarding this passage and the larger context from which it is taken. The central questions are these: Is Jesus (Luke) overstating the case to highlight essential principles of the Christian life, not intended to be taken literally? Or, is the passage aimed at the wealthy - those who have an abundance of leisure time, tunics and worldly possessions? Or, is Jesus (Luke) describing what Darrell Bock calls "the natural exposure" of what it means to be a follower of Jesus?
Regarding the questions raised, scholars and theologians can be found who will offer support for each of the interpretations. Note that in the passage quoted, one is told to be generous not only with one's possessions in offering them to others; one should also be generous with what is taken from us! That line is specific to Luke, and not to be found in Matthew's rendering of this sermon.
One thing that has to be acknowledged with regard to this teaching - it does not list possessions that could be categorized as extravagant, possessed only by the wealthy.
...turn the other cheek ... This most likely refers to a slap that is less physically painful than it is representative of an insult. "Turn the other cheek" probably means to refrain from defending oneself - let the insult go.
...cloak and tunic ... The cloak is the outer garment; the tunic is worn beneath it. If someone takes your coat, chances are they need your sweater, or your shirt as well. Give it to them. The "taking" in this verse may refer to robbery.
...give to everyone who asks you ... The present tense of the verbs here suggests that generosity should be a way of life. It applies to the panhandler as well as the neighbor.
...if anyone takes what belongs to you ... If you have been wronged do not exact retribution.
The crunch in all of this takes us back to the discussion at the beginning of this lesson. How is this to be applied? As principles not to be taken literally in every situation? Is it only for those of means who have plenty to spare? Does it describe the 'exposure' that every follower of Jesus accepts as part of Christian discipleship?
I know what I think; but as far as your life is concerned - it's your call.
Regarding the questions raised, scholars and theologians can be found who will offer support for each of the interpretations. Note that in the passage quoted, one is told to be generous not only with one's possessions in offering them to others; one should also be generous with what is taken from us! That line is specific to Luke, and not to be found in Matthew's rendering of this sermon.
One thing that has to be acknowledged with regard to this teaching - it does not list possessions that could be categorized as extravagant, possessed only by the wealthy.
...turn the other cheek ... This most likely refers to a slap that is less physically painful than it is representative of an insult. "Turn the other cheek" probably means to refrain from defending oneself - let the insult go.
...cloak and tunic ... The cloak is the outer garment; the tunic is worn beneath it. If someone takes your coat, chances are they need your sweater, or your shirt as well. Give it to them. The "taking" in this verse may refer to robbery.
...give to everyone who asks you ... The present tense of the verbs here suggests that generosity should be a way of life. It applies to the panhandler as well as the neighbor.
...if anyone takes what belongs to you ... If you have been wronged do not exact retribution.
The crunch in all of this takes us back to the discussion at the beginning of this lesson. How is this to be applied? As principles not to be taken literally in every situation? Is it only for those of means who have plenty to spare? Does it describe the 'exposure' that every follower of Jesus accepts as part of Christian discipleship?
I know what I think; but as far as your life is concerned - it's your call.
posted by Mark D at 1:17 PM
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