Send us a text

This episode unpacks one of the most misunderstood verses in Scripture: Jesus’ command to “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:38–42). Spencer Nakamura explores what Jesus really meant, the Old Testament context of “eye for an eye,” and why this teaching doesn’t call believers to be passive or tolerate abuse. With commentary on the Charlie Kirk memorial, Romans 12 vs. Romans 13, and five common myths about turning the other cheek, this episode clarifies the difference between a believer’s mandate to forgive and the government’s role to uphold justice. If you’ve ever wondered whether Christians should defend themselves, confront sin, or reconcile after forgiveness, this episode will give you clarity, biblical depth, and practical application.

10 Timestamps

• 00:00 – Introduction: Why “turn the other cheek” is so often misunderstood
• 02:30 – The danger of twisted interpretations online
• 05:00 – Matthew 5 explained: insult vs. retaliation
• 07:15 – Old Testament context: the ceiling of justice (Exodus & Leviticus)
• 10:00 – What Jesus was correcting in the Pharisees’ hearts
• 11:30 – Insults vs. safety: why “cheek” ≠ life-threatening violence
• 14:30 – Lessons from the Charlie Kirk memorial: forgiveness vs. justice
• 18:00 – Romans 12 vs. Romans 13: believer vs. government roles
• 24:00 – Myths about turning the other cheek (abuse, pacifism, ignoring sin)
• 30:00 – Forgiveness vs. reconciliation: boundaries and wisdom

Sign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theology
https://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak
___________________________

Give a one-time donation to the Podcast
https://spencernakamura.com/donation
__________________________

Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of God
https://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day-devotional