Does the Lord’s teaching apply to civil authorities?
I always thought that “eye for and eye” was for justice systems. That citizens are not to apply this to personal interactions.
I’m just asking. It came up recently between my wife and I and I felt lacking in understanding.
An Eye for an Eye was part of the jewish law. It was given to the jewish people through Moses. You’re correct. The people of the time (and some of the people of this time) took it to be part of interpersonal interaction.
You are correct, sir. Mostly.
Eye for an eye was national law, specifically to put an end to the circle of revenge. Instead, just retribution.
As for Jesus, it was more personalized, especially since the pagan Romans were in charge.
But ultimately, the government is given the sword for a reason, and that is to execute justice.