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Verse Takeaways
1
The Spirit of the Command
Commentators overwhelmingly agree that this is not a literal rule to give to every person who asks for any reason. Scholars like Albert Barnes and Charles Spurgeon explain it's about cultivating a heart of radical generosity. This principle must be balanced with wisdom and other duties, such as providing for one's family and not encouraging idleness. The goal is to adopt the spirit of giving, not to be foolishly prodigal.
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Book Overview
Matthew
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Commentaries
10
Albert Barnes
On Matthew 5:42
18th Century
Theologian
Give to him that asketh thee. This is the general rule. It is better to give sometimes to an undeserving person than to turn away one who …
AT Robertson
On Matthew 5:42
Turn not thou away (μη αποστραφηις). Second aorist passive subjunctive in prohibition. "This is one of the clearest instances of t…
Charles Spurgeon
On Matthew 5:38–43
19th Century
Preacher
You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: but I say to you, that you resist not evil: but whoever shall…
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John Calvin
On Matthew 5:42
16th Century
Theologian
Give to him that asketh thee. Though the words of Christ, which are related by Matthew, appear to command us to give to all without discri…
John Gill
On Matthew 5:42
17th Century
Pastor
Give to him that asketh thee
To every man, (Luke 6:30) whether Jew or Gentile; friend or foe; believer o…
Matthew Henry
On Matthew 5:38–42
17th Century
Minister
The plain instruction is: Suffer any injury that can be endured for the sake of peace, committing your concerns to the Lord's keeping. And the sum …
Thomas Aquinas
On Matthew 5:38–42
13th Century
Philosopher
You have heard that it hath been said: An eye for an eye. Above, the Lord fulfilled the Law concerning permissive precept…