Jesus overturns “eye for an eye” in his very first sermon. That one on the mount, that the Christian nationalists never quote, ever. He begins with something everyone can agree on: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matthew 5:7). Which is very pleasant, catchy, and true. But this is New Covenant time, and the carpenter’s here to explicitly reject the concept of retribution. He tells the crowd that the time has come for nonviolence and forgiveness. You have heard that it was said, “Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.” But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone
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