Cornerstone Community Church of Los Angeles 13426 S. Avalon Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90061 310-532-2342

Sermon Notes For 2025

Please see  "Archived Wednesday Sermon Notes"  for previous topics - Thank you!

Sermon Notes For 3-5-25 Part 1. For The Gospel Of Matthew 5: Vs. 38 Thru 42, For This Is Our Unique Separate Challenging Topic That Can Be Life-Changing, (But) It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King Really Is!

Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 5. Now, today with God’s help, we are going to begin this final portion at reveals Another Unique, Separate, Challenging Topic Which Can Be Life-Changing, (But) It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King Really Is!

So, here in The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 5 and vs. 38 thru 42, we will be considering this most important section given unto us by our Lord Jesus Christ. Show you what I mean!

Now, let’s notice Mathew 5: 38 You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40 If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41 And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with them two. 42 Give to him or her who asks you, and from him or her who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43 You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. 44 But I say to you love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you. 45 So that you may be like the sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect. (Stop Here)

 So again, with God’s help, we are going to begin this final portion of Chapter 5 That Reveals Another Unique, Separate, Challenging Topic Which Can Be Life-Changing, 

However, It Is Going To Reveal Either How Superficial Or How Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King Really Is!

And here in The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 5 and vs. 38 thru 42, we will be considering this most important section given unto us by our Lord Jesus Christ. 

And yet, these words in vs. 38 thru 42 from our Lord Jesus Christ, these 11 verses are some of the most disliked, misunderstood, misinterpreted, and misapplied verses that both Christians and non-Christians alike, have been responsible for.

For these 11 verses from our Lord Jesus, will truly expose the heart, and the mindset, and the attitudes of distain, dislike and disobedience of anyone whether they are saved or unsaved when it comes to vs. 38 thru 42.

Now, today let’s start with Mathew 5: 38 You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek,turn the other to him also. (Stop here)

See the Gospel of Luke 6:29. To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either.

Now, notice again Mathew 5:38. You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. (Stop here)

This is an exact quotation found in 3 Old Testament  passages (Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20;  Deuteronomy 19:15-21) and reflects the principle of lex talionis, (lex = law + talionis = retaliation = literally the "law of retaliation.")

One of the most ancient law codes discovered even in the secular code of Hammurabi (a Babylonian king - see article on Babylonian law) composed sometime around 2000BC. Simply put, this law required that the punishment match the crime and corresponds to modern expressions like "tit for tat" and "quid pro quo" (Latin for "something for something"). 

See Exodus 21: 22 If men fight, and hurt a woman with child, so that she gives birth prematurely, yet no harm follows he shall surely be punished accordingly as the woman's husband imposes upon him;and he shall pay as the judges determine. 23 But if any harm follows then you shall give life for life, 24 eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, 25 burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.

 Exodus 18: 13 And so it was, on the next day, that Moses sat to judge the people; and the people stood before Moses from morning until evening. 14 So when Moses' father-in-law saw all that he did for the people, he said, What is this thing that you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit, and all the people stand before you from morning until evening?15 And Moses said to his father-in-law, "Because the people come to me to inquire of God. 16 When they have a difficulty, they come to me, and I judge between one and another; and I make known the statutes of God and His laws.

In that sense lex talionis was merciful for it limited the magnitude of one's revenge, restraining an angry response. The concept of an eye for eye,” sometimes called jus talionis or lex talionis, is part of the Mosaic Law used in the Israelites’ justice system. 

The principle is that the punishment must fit the crime and there should be a just penalty for evil actions: “If there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise” (Exodus 21:23–25).

Justice should be equitable; excessive harshness and excessive leniency should be avoided.We have no indication that the law of “an eye for an eye” was followed literally; there is never a biblical account of an Israelite being maimed as a result of this law. Also, before this particular law was given, God had already established a judicial system to hear cases and determine penalties (Exodus 18:13–26)—a system that would be unnecessary if God had intended a literal “eye for an eye” penalty. Although capital crimes were repaid with execution in ancient Israel, on the basis of multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6), most other crimes were repaid with payment in goods if you injured a man’s hand so that he could not work, you compensated that man for his lost wages.

Besides Exodus 21, the law of “an eye for an eye” is mentioned twice in the Old Testament (Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21). Each time, the phrase is used in the context of a case being judged before a civil authority such as a judge. “An eye for an eye” was thus intended to be a guiding principle for lawgivers and judges; it was never to be used to justify vigilantism or settling grievances personally.

In the New Testament, it seems the Pharisees and scribes had taken the “eye for an eye” principle and applied it to everyday personal relationships. They taught that seeking personal revenge was acceptable. If someone punched you, you could punch him back; if someone insulted you, he was fair game for your insults. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day ignored the judicial basis of the giving of that law.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus counters the common teaching of personal retaliation: You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you  Matthew 5:38–39). Jesus then proceeds to reveal God’s heart concerning interpersonal relationships: Do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you” (Matthew 5:39–42).

In giving this “new” command, Jesus is not nullifying the Old Testament law (Matthew 5:17). Rather, He is separating the responsibility of the government (to punish evildoers justly) from the responsibility we all have on a personal level before God to love our enemies.

We should not seek retribution for personal slights. We are to ignore personal insults (the meaning of “turn the other cheek”). Christians are to be willing to give more of their material goods, time, and labor than required, even if the demands upon us are unjust. We should loan to those who want to borrow, love our enemies, and pray for those who persecute us (verses 43-48). Enforcing “an eye for an eye” is the magistrate’s job; forgiving our enemies is ours. We see this played out today every time a victim stands up in court to publicly forgive a convicted criminal the forgiveness is personal and real, but the judge still justly demands that the sentence be carried out.

Jesus’ limiting of the “eye for an eye” principle in no way prohibits self-defense or the forceful protection of the innocent from harm. The actions of duly appointed agents of the government, such as police officers and the military, to protect citizens and preserve the peace are not in question. Jesus’ command to turn the other cheek applies to personal relationships, not judicial policy. The principle of “an eye for an eye” is meant as a judicial policy, not as a rule for interpersonal relationships. The believer in Christ is guided by Jesus’ words to forgive. The Christian is radically different from those who follow the natural inclination to respond in kind.

Now, notice again Mathew 5: 38 You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. (Stop here)

Now, notice again Mathew 5:39. But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your (right cheek), turn the other to him also. (Stop here)

Malcolm X said, this one time. “Anytime you tell a man to turn the other cheek or to be nonviolent in the face of a violent enemy, you're making that man defenseless. You're robbing him of his God-given right to defend himself.”

See Matthew 5: 8 Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. 11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.

The Gospel of Luke 22: 35 And Jesus said unto the disciples, When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything? So, they said, “Nothing”. 36 Then He said to them, But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. 37 For I say to you that this which is written must still be accomplished in Me: And He was numbered with the transgressors. For the things concerning Me have an end. 38 So the Disciples said Lord, look here are two swords. And Jesus said unto them, It is enough. 39 And coming out, Jesus went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed and His disciples also followed Him. 47 And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. 48 But Jesus said to him, Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss? 49 When those around Him saw what was going to happen, they said unto Him Lord, shall we strike with the sword? 50 And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. 51 But Jesus answered and said, Permit even this. And He touched his ear and healed him.

Now, see also John 18: 10. Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.  11. Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me shall I not drink it?

Turn the other cheek?  This is a hard saying in the sense that it prescribes a course of action which does not come naturally to us. Unprovoked assault prompts resentment and retaliation. If one wants to be painfully literal, the assault is particularly vicious, for if the striker is right-handed, it is with the back of his hand that he hits the other on the right cheek.

This is one of a number of examples by which Jesus shows that the lifestyle of the kingdom of God is more demanding than what the law of Moses laid down. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth’” (Mt 5:38). This was indeed laid down in Israel’s earliest law code (Ex 21:24), and when it was first said it marked a great step forward, for it imposed a strict limitation on the taking of vengeance. It replaced an earlier system of justice according to which if a member of tribe X injured a member of tribe Y, tribe Y was under an obligation to take vengeance on tribe X. This quickly led to a blood feud between the two tribes and resulted in suffering which far exceeded the original injury. But incorporated into Israel’s law code was the principle of exact retaliation: one eye, and no more, for an eye; one life, and no more, for a life. When wounded honor was satisfied with such precisely proportionate amends, life was much less fraught with hazards. The acceptance of this principle made it easier to regard monetary compensation as being, in many cases, a reasonable replacement for the infliction of an equal and opposite injury on the offending party.

But now Jesus takes a further step. “Don’t retaliate at all,” he says to his disciples. “Don’t harbor a spirit of resentment; if someone does you an injury or puts you to inconvenience, show yourself master of the situation by doing something to his advantage. If he gets some pleasure out of hitting you, let him hit you again.” (It should not be necessary to say that this saying is no more to be pressed literally than the saying about plucking out one’s right eye and throwing it away—it is not difficult to envisage the other cheek being turned in a very provocative manner.) If a soldier or other government official conscripts your services to carry a load for him so far, you are under compulsion; you are forced to do it. But, when you have reached the end of the stipulated distance, you are a free person again; then you can say to him, “If you’d like it carried farther, I will gladly carry it for you.” The initiative has now become yours, and you can take it not by voicing a sense of grievance at having been put to such inconvenience but by performing an act of grace. This way of reacting to violence and compulsion is the way of Christ.

To have one’s services conscripted to carry a soldier’s pack for him is not an everyday experience in the Western world. How, in our situation, could this particular injunction of Jesus be applied? Perhaps when a citizen is directed by a policeman to assist him in the execution of his duty. But if (say) it is a matter of helping him to arrest a larger number of suspicious characters than he can cope with single-handed, would they not also come within the scope of duty to one’s neighbor? This simply reminds us that Jesus’ injunctions are not usually of the kind that can be carried out automatically; they often require careful thought. Whatever sacrifices he expects his followers to make, he does not ask them to sacrifice their minds. What they are urged to do is to have their minds conformed to his, and when careful thought is exercised in accordance with the mind of Christ, the resulting action will be in accordance with the way of Christ.

Another parallel might be the Christian’s reaction to his income tax demand. The tax demanded must be paid; no choice can be exercised there. But suppose the Christian taxpayer, as an act of grace, pays double the amount demanded, or at least adds a substantial amount to it; what then? The computer would probably record it as tax overpaid, and the surplus would come back to him as a rebate. Perhaps it would be wisest if he were to send it to the government anonymously—not only so as not to let his left hand know what his right hand was doing, but to forestall unworthy suspicions and enquiries. Once again, the carrying out of the simple injunctions of Jesus in a complex society like ours is not so easy. But where the spirit which he recommended is present, the performance should not go too far astray.

The admonition to turn the other cheek is given by Jesus to his disciples. It belongs to the sphere of personal behavior. There are many Christians, however, who hold that this teaching should be put into practice by communities and nations as well as by individuals. Where Christian communities are concerned, we may well agree. The spectacle of the church enlisting the aid of the “secular arm” to promote its interests is rarely an edifying one. “It belongs to the church of God,” someone once said, “to receive blows rather than to inflict them—but,” he added “she is an anvil that has worn out many hammers.”7 But what about a political community?

The situation did not arise in New Testament times. The first disciples of Jesus did not occupy positions of authority. Joseph of Arimathea might be an exception: he was a member of the Sanhedrin, the supreme court of the Jewish nation, and according to Luke (Lk 23:50–51), he did not go along with his colleagues’ adverse verdict on Jesus. As the gospel spread into the Gentile world, some local churches included in their membership men who occupied positions of municipal responsibility, like Erastus, the city treasurer of Corinth (Rom 16:23); but neither Paul nor any other New Testament writer finds it necessary to give special instructions to Christian rulers corresponding to those given to Christian subjects. But what was to happen when Christians became rulers, as in due course some did? Should the Christian magistrate practice nonretaliation toward the criminal who comes up before him for judgment? Should the Christian king practice nonretaliation toward a neighboring king who declared war against him?
Paul, who repeats and underlines Jesus’ teaching of nonretaliation, regards retaliation as part of the duty of the civil ruler. “Would you have no fear of him who is in authority?” he asks. “Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain; he is the servant of God to execute his wrath on the wrongdoer” (Rom 13:3–4 RSV). For Paul, the ruler in question was the Roman emperor or someone who held executive or judicial authority under him. But his words were relevant to their chronological setting. The time had not yet come (although it did come in less than ten years after those words were written) when the empire was openly hostile to the church. Still less had the time come when the empire capitulated to the church and emperors began to profess and call themselves Christians. When they inherited the “sword” which their pagan predecessors had not borne “in vain,” how were they to use it? The answer to that question cannot be read easily off the pages of the New Testament. It is still being asked, and it is right that it should; but no single answer can claim to be the truly Christian one.

Sermon Notes For 3-12-25 Part 2 For The Gospel Of Matthew 5: Vs. 38 Thru 42, For This Is Our (8th) Unique Separate Challenging Topic That Can Be Life-Changing, (But) It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King Really Is!

Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 5.

Now, let’s continue here in The Gospel of Matthew 5: And vs. 38 thru 42, as we are coming to terms with this very important section that can be life-changing, but, it will also reveal how superficial or serious our commitment to obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King really is!

Show You What I Mean. 

 Now, notice Mathew 5:

38 You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

40 If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.

41 And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.

42 Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.

43 You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.

44 But I say to you love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 

45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?

48 Therefore, you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

Now, once again, these words from our Lord Jesus Christ here in Matthew 5: 38 thru 48, these 11 verses are some of the most challenging, misunderstood, and greatly disliked verses by some Christians and non-Christians alike. But why?

Mainly, because these words from our Lord Jesus Christ here in Matthew 5: 38 thru 48, exposes the heart, the mindset, and the attitudes of everyone either saved or unsaved, 

regarding our rights to personal dignity that is seen in vs 39.

Or, our rights to justice and fairness, which is seen in vs 40.

Or, our rights when it is necessary to carry out vengeance and retaliation to anyone you are in opposition with. which is seen in vs 38&43.

Or, their rights to withhold love, or prayer or help to anyone you are in opposition with. which is seen in vs 43 &44.

For a lot of us these things that I just mentioned for our Lord Jesus to require and to expect this type of compliance to His commands and directives for life when dealing with an enemy or one who is in opposition with us, this is totally unacceptable in today’s world.

And most importantly, such commands and directives for life when dealing with an enemy or one who is in opposition with us is, counter intuitive and counter cultural for our Lord to expect such a response from us in these times that we are living in.

 My Unalienable Rights

The four core unalienable rights, as stated in the Declaration of Independence, are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness, along with the right to property. 

·         Life:
The fundamental right to exist and to be free from unwarranted deprivation of life. 

·         Liberty:
The freedom from arbitrary constraint, allowing individuals to live free from undue interference by the government or others. 

·         Pursuit of Happiness:
The right to pursue one's own goals and aspirations, to seek and obtain happiness in accordance with personal values and beliefs. 

·         Property:
The right to own and control assets, including land, material possessions, and the ability to acquire and possess them. 

My Individual Liberties set for in our country’s Bill of Rights

The Bill of Rights is one of the three founding documents. It was strongly influenced by the Virginia Declaration of Rights, written by George Mason as well as English documents such as the Magna Carta, the Petition of Right, the English Bill of Rights, and the Massachusetts Body of Liberties.

 Bill of Rights Amendments

First Amendment
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Second Amendment
A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

Third Amendment
No soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

Fourth Amendment
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Fifth Amendment
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia, when in actual service in time of war or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

Sixth Amendment
In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.

Seventh Amendment
In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise reexamined in any court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

Eighth Amendment
Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

Ninth Amendment
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

Tenth Amendment
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.

 For a lot of us these things that I just mentioned for our Lord Jesus to require and to expect this type of compliance to His commands and directives for life when dealing with an enemy or one who is in opposition with us, this is totally unacceptable in today’s world.

 And Most importantly, such commands and directives for life when dealing with   an enemy or one who is in opposition with us is, Counter intuitive and Counter Cultural for our Lord to expect such a response from us in these times that we are living in.

 (Question), do you think when we are in heaven Or living during the 1000-year kingdom reign of Jesus Christ on earth,

Do you think we will have unalienable rights and Individual Liberties something like we have on earth in this country, Like The Bill of Rights.

(First) Our Lord Jesus Christ Here In Matthew 5: 39 Exposes The Heart, The Mindset, And The Attitudes Of Everyone Either Saved Or Unsaved, Regarding Their Rights To Personal Dignity.

Now, Notice Mathew 5:39. But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

 The Gospel of Luke 6:29A. To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. 

 Now, See Romans 12: 17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord. 20 Therefore If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.  21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

 Now, back to Matthew Chapter 5

The Gospel of Matthew 5: 40. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.

 The Gospel of Luke 6: 29B.  And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either.

Sermon Notes for 3-19-25 for The Gospel Of Matthew 5: And Vs. 38 Thru 48, as we are coming to terms with This Very Important Section That Can Be Life-Changing, But It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King Really Is!

Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 5.

And let’s continue here in The Gospel of Matthew 5: and vs. 38 thru 48, as we are coming to terms with this very important section that can be life-changing, but, it will also reveal how superficial or serious our commitment to obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King really is!

Now, with God’s help for the last couple of Wednesdays in a row, we have been challenged by these at least from our perspective these unreasonable commands, these unreasonable directives from Our Lord Jesus Christ, when it comes to dealing with an enemy, whoever that might be!  Show you what I mean.

Now, notice Mathew 5:

38 You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, 

turn the other to him also.

40 If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.

(Stop here)

Now, when it comes to dealing with an enemy at least from our perspective,

these commands these directives from Our Lord Jesus Christ are considered by most

as being unreasonable and unrealistic in today’s world!

In fact, who in the world is my enemy that i must treat in this way in which our Lord Jesus has commanded us here in Matthew 5: and vs. 38 thru 48, but also in Luke 6: 27-38?   (Repeat)

First, who is my enemy?  In Jesus days for many it was the 1st Century Gentile Roman Army  occupying force in their homeland.

Mixed-Race Jewish individuals, who had a different origin, known as the Samaritans.

Other Jewish individuals who had a different belief, system, known as the Sadducees.

Other Jewish individuals who had a different political objective, known as the Zealots.

Now today, in the 21st century for many it would be, a criminal. A terrorist organization.

A rogue nation. A foreign country. A civil war within a country. A local community or neighborhood in conflict with each other due to racial or ethnic tensions, or street or biker gangs or drug cartel territorial disputes.

But with the help of the Scriptures, can I show you 2 important references that may surprise you to know who your enemy could be from a human perspective!

Now, see Micah 7: 

5 Do not trust in a friend; Do not put your confidence in a companion; and also guard the doors of your mouth from her who lies in your bosom.

6 For son dishonors father, Daughter rises against her mother, Daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; *A man's enemies are the men or the people of his own household.

7 Therefore, I will look unto the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; My God will hear me.

Notice again Micah 7:6. For son dishonors father, daughter rises against her mother, daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; *a man's enemies are the men or the people of his own household.

Now, the word “Enemy” or “Enemies” can also mean,

Someone who is in opposition with you, or you with them.

Someone who is in conflict with you, or you with them.

Someone in which you have a broken relationship with, or them with you.

Someone in which you have a dysfunctional or toxic relationship with, or them with you.

A spouse, an ex-spouse, a sibling a child, a parent, a grandparent, a grandchild, an in-law,

a relative, a friend, an associate, a colleague, a brother or sister in the body of Christ, or within your church family. Or A Leader (within) the body of Christ, or within your church family.

Now, let’s see Matthew 10:

34 Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth. I did not come to bring peace

but a sword.

35 For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law,

*36 And a man's enemies will be those of his own household.

Now again, the word “Enemy” or “Enemies” can also mean,

Someone who is in opposition with you, or you with them.

Someone who is in conflict with you, or you with them.

Someone in which you have a broken relationship with, or them with you.

Someone in which you have A dysfunctional or toxic relationship with, or them with you.

Again, a spouse, an ex- spouse, a sibling a child, a parent, a grandparent, a grandchild, an in-law, a relative, a friend, an associate, a colleague, a brother or sister in the body of Christ,

or within your church family. Or a leader within the body of Christ, or within your church family.

Therefore, how should you and i glorify The Lord and not our flesh, when dealing with an enemy?

Someone who is in opposition with you, or you with them.

Someone who is in conflict with you, or you with them.

Someone in which you have a broken relationship with, or them with you.

Someone in which you have a dysfunctional or toxic relationship with, or them with you.Well, let’s see The Gospel of Luke 6:

27 Here our Lord Jesus Christ is speaking! But I say unto you who hear Me: Love your enemies, do good unto those who hate you,

28 Bless those who curse you and Pray for those who spitefully use you.

29 To the one, your enemy, who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. 

And from the one, your enemy, who takes away your cloak, do-not withhold your tunic either.  (Remember Matthew 5: 39&40)

30 Give or share with everyone who asks of you.  And from the one, your enemy, who takes away your goods, do not ask for them back.

31 And just as you want men to do unto you, you also do unto them likewise!

32 But if you love those who love you, what credit is that unto you? 

For even sinners love those who love them.

33 And if you do good unto those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? 

For even sinners do the same.

34 And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that unto you? 

For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back.

35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend hoping for nothing in return. And your reward will be great and you will be sons of the Most-High. For He is kind unto the unthankful and evil.

36 Therefore, be merciful unto your enemy, just as your Father also is merciful.

37 •Judge not and you shall not be judged. •Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. 

•Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

38 Give or share, and it will be given unto you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, 

and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use it will be measured back unto you.

Now, let’s go back to Matthew Chapter 5.

Now, let’s notice Matthew Chapter 5:

41 And whoever your enemy compels you to go one mile, go with them two.  (Stop here)

At this point, i believe that our Lord Jesus is commanding us to being willing at times to inconvenience yourself when dealing with certain situations.

In our day we have a expression which says, “Going the extra mile!” 

This phrase is not to be taken literally like traveling an extra mile or go a certain distance!

Instead, it's a metaphor that signifies doing more than what is required or expected!

This is an idiom we use which means, to make an extra effort, or go beyond what is expected, often to achieve something.  In other words, being willing at times to inconvenience yourself in certain situations when dealing an enemy.

An example of this to consider, let’s see The Gospel of Luke 7:

36 Then one of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat or dine with him.  And Jesus went to the Pharisee's house and sat down to eat. ((Note Vs.49))

37 Now, a certain woman in the city who was a sinner when she knew that Jesus, a guest at

the table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil,

38 and stood at Jesus feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, 

and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil.

39 Now, when the Pharisee, the host, who had invited Jesus saw all of this, he spoke to himself, saying,

if This man were a prophet, he would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner.

40 But Jesus answered and said to him, Simon I have something to say unto you.  So, Simon said, Teacher, say it!

41 "There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty.

42 And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?"

43 Simon answered and said, "I suppose the one whom he forgave more." And He said to him, "You have rightly judged 

44 Then He turned to the woman and said to Simon, Do you see this woman? *I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head.

45 *You gave Me no kiss! but this woman has not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in.

46 *You did not anoint My head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil.

47 Therefore I say unto you, her sins which are many are forgiven, for she loved much! But to whom little is forgiven the same loves little.

48 Then Jesus said unto her, Your sins are forgiven.

49 And those who sat at the table with Jesus began to say to themselves, Who is this who even forgives sins?

50 Then He said to the woman, Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.

I believe that our Lord Jesus is commanding us to being willing at times to inconvenience yourself when dealing with certain situations.

Instead, it's a metaphor that signifies doing more than what is required or expected!

In other words, being willing at times to inconvenience yourself in certain situations when dealing an enemy.

Sermon Notes For 3-26-25 Part 4 The Gospel Of Matthew 5: And Vs. 38 Thru 48, as we are coming to terms with This Very Important Section That Can Be Life-Changing, But It Will Also Reveal How Superficial Or Serious Our Commitment To Obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King Really Is!

Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew Chapter 5. And let’s continue here in The Gospel of Matthew 5: And vs. 38 thru 48, as we are coming to terms with this very important section that can be life-changing, but it will also reveal how superficial or serious our commitment to obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King really is!

Now, with God’s help for the last few Wednesdays in a row, we have been challenged by these at least from our perspective, these unreasonable commands, these unreasonable directives from our Lord Jesus Christ, when it comes to dealing with an enemy, whoever they may be!

For example, notice Mathew 5: 38 You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40 If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41 And whoever your enemy compels you to go one mile, go with them two. 42 Give to him or her who asks you, and from him or her who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43 You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. 44 But I say to you love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (Stop here)

Now, once again, these words from our Lord Jesus Christ are some of the most challenging, misunderstood, and greatly disliked verses by some Christians and non-Christians alike.

And for a lot of us, these commands and directives which are not suggestions or advice when dealing with an enemy or one who is in opposition with us, these words from our Lord Jesus here in The Gospel of Matthew 5 and vs. 38 thru 48 are totally unacceptable in today’s world.

And most importantly, such commands and directives for life when dealing with an enemy or one who is in opposition with us, is counter intuitive and counter cultural for our Lord to expect such a response from us in these times that we are living in.

But that is the very reason why our Lord Jesus uses Matthew 5: 38 thru 48 and The Gospel of Luke 6: 27 thru 38, because they can be life-changing, but also they will reveal how superficial or serious our commitment to obey The Lord Jesus, The Messiah King really is!

(Question) So, who is my enemy? Well, In Jesus days for many it was the 1st Century Gentile Roman Army as an occupying force in their homeland. In Jesus days, for many it was a mixed-race Jewish individual, who had a different origin, They were known as the Samaritans. In Jesus days for many it was certain Jewish individuals who had a different belief system, they were known as the Sadducees. And in Jesus days for many it was a minority of Jewish individuals who had a different political objective, they were known as the Zealots.

Now, today in the 21st Century When Ask Who Is My Enemy For Many it would be, an Immigrant. Someone who votes and supports a different political party than yourself. A Criminal. A terrorist organization. A rogue nation. A foreign country. A civil war within one’s country. A local community or neighborhood in conflict with each other due to Racial or ethnic tensions, or street or biker gangs or drug cartels territorial disputes.

However, with the help of the Scriptures, there are 2 important references that may surprise you to know who your enemy could be from a human perspective!

(Quote) Micah 7: 5 Do not trust in a friend; Do not put your confidence in a companion; and also guard the doors of your mouth from her who lies in your bosom. 6 For son dishonors father, Daughter rises against her mother, daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; *A man's enemies are the men or the people of his own household. 7 Therefore, I will look unto the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; My God will hear me.

Now, the word, “enemy” or “enemies” can also mean, Someone who is in opposition with you, or you with them. Someone who is in conflict with you, or you with them. Someone in which you have a broken relationship with, or them with you. Someone in which you have A dysfunctional or toxic relationship with, or them with you. A spouse, an ex-spouse, a sibling, a child, a parent, a grandparent, a grandchild, an in-law a relative, a friend, an associate, a colleague, a brother or sister in the body of Christ, or within your church family.  Or a leader within the body of Christ, or within your church family.

(Quote) Matthew 10: 34 Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, *36 And a man's enemies will be those of his own household.

Now again, the word “enemy” or “enemies” can also mean, Someone who is in opposition with you, or you with them. Someone who is in conflict with you, or you with them. Someone in which you have a broken relationship with, or them with you. Someone in which you have a dysfunctional or toxic relationship with, or them with you.

And again, it can be, A spouse, an ex-spouse, a sibling, a child, a parent, a grandparent, a grandchild, an in-law, a relative, a friend, an associate, a colleague, a brother or sister in the body of Christ, or within your church family. Or a leader within the body of Christ, or within your church family.

Therefore, how should you and i glorify The Lord and not our flesh, when dealing with an enemy?

Now, let’s notice again Matthew Chapter 5:42. Give to him or her who asks you, and from him or her who wants to borrow from you Do not turn away.  (Stop here)

Now, at least 2 things are apparent to me. First, freely you have received, and freely you should give!

Secondly, God sees and knows what you are doing for His sake and for His Glory towards one who does not deserve such charity, or help, or support from you!

First, let’s understand this Divine Principle that was true then and it is true now !

Notice Matthew Chapter 10: 5 These twelve disciples, the Lord Jesus sent out and commanded them saying:  Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans. 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as you go preach saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely, you have received, freely give! (Stop here)

Now, here is a Divine Principle that was true then and it is true now, and that is don’t be selfish nor self-centered whatever you have, you have received also!

Now, turn to The Book of Hebrews Chapter 6. Now, at least 2 things are apparent to me why our Lord Jesus says what he does in Matthew 5:42,  Give to him or her who asks you, and from him or her who wants to borrow from you do not turn away!

And the second thing that is apparent to me is, God sees and knows what you are doing for His sake and for His Glory towards one does not deserve such charity, or help, or support from you! (Repeat)

Now, notice the Book of Hebrews 6:10.  For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His Name, in that you have ministered unto the saints, and you do minister or serve!

Now, turn to The Gospel of Luke Chapter 6. Now remember, God sees and knows what you are doing for His sake and for His Glory towards one does not deserve such charity, or help, or support from you!

Now, let’s notice The Gospel of Luke 6: 30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away borrows from your goods ask for them not again. 34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive back, what thank ye have for sinners also lend to sinners in order to receive as much again. 35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and unto the evil. 38. Give and it will be given unto you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back unto you!

Now, let’s go back to Matthew Chapter 5. Now again, how should you and I glorify The Lord and not our flesh, when dealing with an enemy?

Now, let’s notice Matthew Chapter 5: 43 You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. 44 But I say to you love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (Stop here)

Now, let’s notice again Matthew Chapter 5: Now, there are at least 2 more things that are apparent to me! First, Don’t be misinformed or ignorant of what the Bible really says, and not just what people say it says!

Secondly, God’s ways are not our ways,

And therefore, daily I need to request for myself, divine wisdom and patience. And the right attitude when it comes to these 4 unexpected verbs that are revealed to us here in Matthew 5: 44, that I am to implement when dealing with an enemy.

Now again, there are at least 2 more things that are apparent to me! First, don’t be misinformed or ignorant of what the Bible really says, and not just what people say it says!

Now, let’s notice Matthew Chapter 5:43. You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.  (Stop here)

(Question) is there anywhere in the Bible within the scriptures that gives permission or encourages us to hate our enemies?

Well, some would point to Psalm 139.  Psalm 139: 19 Oh that You would slay the wicked O God! Therefore, depart from me you bloodthirsty men or people. 20 For they speak against You wickedly; Your enemies take Your name in vain. *21 Do I not hate them O Lord who hate You? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? 22 I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies. (Stop there)

Remember Matthew Chapter 5:43. You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.

(Question) is there anywhere in the Bible within the scriptures that gives permission or encourages us to hate our enemies?

Now, this time, let read a little more of Psalm 139: 19 Oh that You would slay the wicked O God! Therefore, depart from me you bloodthirsty men or people. 20 For they speak against You wickedly; Your enemies take Your name in vain. *21 Do I not hate them O Lord who hate You? And do I not loathe A strong dislike or disgust for someone. those who rise up against You? 22 I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies. (However, keep reading!) *23 Search me O God and know my heart; Try me and know my anxieties or my thoughts ;*24 And see if there is any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.

(Question) is there anywhere in the Bible, within the Scriptures that tells us that it is wrong and sinful to hate our enemies?

Well, see 1st John 2: 9 He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. 10 He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. 11 But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

Now, see 1st John 3: 14 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death.    15 Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.

Now, see 1st John 4:20.  If someone says I love God and hates his brother they are a liar! For he or she who does not love their brother whom they has seen, how can they love God whom they have not seen?

Now, let’s go back to Matthew Chapter 5.

Now again, there are at least 2 more things are apparent to me!

And the second thing that is apparent to me is, God’s ways are not our ways, and therefore daily i need to request for myself, divine wisdom and patience.  And the right attitude when it comes to these 4 unexpected verbs that are revealed to us here in Matthew 5: 44, that i am to implement when dealing with an enemy.

Now, let’s notice Matthew Chapter 5: 44. But I say to you love your enemies. Bless those who curse you. Do good to those who hate you.  And pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.  (Stop here)