I often remind people that "Turn the other Cheek" was about forgiveness and not holding a hateful grudge. But "Anyone that would sin against a child should have a millstone cast around their neck and be thrown into the see." was about compassion. This confuses them. Was Jesus advocating the death penalty? He was silent on the punishment for crimes on the body. He didn't preach against stoning or crucifixion. He preached about the sprit; repentance, forgiveness, etc.
I don't believe Jesus would even comment about saving lives through justice. He was and is about "SAVING SOULS". And, personally, this is where I believe my own Catholic Church falters and has lost its way. Our "Social Justice" mission in the Catholic Church has overwhelmed and led us away from the original intent and mission of the church (My opinion & I am a practicing Catholic). Today, our own Pope seems to advocate salvation through forced government participation. How does advocating social and government action save the souls of God's people. Reducing their free will to participate in some 3rd party, farmed out sacrifice in the way of taxes and redistribution is not what God intended. Nobody is going to heaven simply by paying more taxes.
Apologies for the rant....
Good rant! No apology needed!
Good thoughts. Read the following recently. Interesting statement from Jesus himself as to why he came. Much to think about .........................
Joh 18:37 Pilate said, “So You are a king?” Jesus responded, “You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”