Jesus Christ is the standard by which all Christians must model our lives. Christians are called to be an example of his suffering (1 Peter 2:21). Jesus’ self-sacrificing death is the example of love that Christians are called to express. Just as James insisted that “faith without works is dead,” John insists that love without sacrificial deeds is empty.
You have heard that it was said, “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two . . . Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you (Matthew 5:38-42).
