But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; (Matthew 5:39, RSV2CE)
Turn the other cheek is not a denial that evil can be opposed; it is a rejection of retaliation when the motive is personal vengeance. Retribution for correction is not forbidden—what’s forbidden is the revenge-minded attitude. Punishment can be a work of mercy when it aims at correction, done by those who have the authority to do so. Defending others to prevent sin/harm is different from taking revenge for your own gratification or anger.
I get confused between correction and retaliation. Most of the time I am trying to correct even though I am angry about the injustice. I pray for you to help me discern that I do right even though the anger is there.
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