Short Exegesis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Short Exegesis - Essay Example His idea that followed is contrary to what he mentioned that was popularly known and accepted- not an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth but that if an evildoer strikes someone on the right cheek, he should turn the other. Jesus was not trying to make another commandment contrary to what was given in the Old Testament, but as he claimed in Matthew 5:17, he came to fulfill the law. Jeremiah confirms Jesus’ words in Lamentations 3:30 saying, â€Å"Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him.† The concept Jesus was offering was not new however, it was lesser known than the justifiable concept of retaliation mentioned earlier. Jesus was advocating non-violent reactions in contrast to the eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth reaction. Moreover, he encourages people to give their cloaks as well when someone sues them and tries to take their coat. The coat is the inner garment used by the Israelites while the cloak is an outer garment (Attridge, 1677) which they also use for sleeping. Exodus 22:26-27 and Deuteronomy 24:12-13 shows that a cloak used as a pledge by borrowers should be returned before the sun sets because it is essential for him during the night. Furthermore, Jesus advises to go an extra mile if one is forced to go one mile. Those who are in position oftentimes asked too much from their subordinates and rebellion could be an easy reaction for most but, Jesus recommended doing more than what is asked, instead. Similarly, Jesus counseled giving to everyone who begs and not to deny borrowers. Beggars seemed common during the time of Jesus and these were usually the sick and incapacitated like the beggar at the gate called Beautiful (Acts 3:1-10) or the widows and orphans. Jesus told the people to do what he was about to exemplify during his crucifixion. As he told them to turn the other cheek to those