Paradigm of Peace, Silly Satire, Text of Terror: Perspectives on Matthew 5:38–48 for Immigrant Populations

Abstract

Abstract:Given the discourse surrounding immigration in the 2016 presidential election, this article inquires how Jesus's teachings regarding nonresistance to evil and love of enemies (Matthew 5:38–48) may look from a Christian immigrant perspective. The article suggests that there are several possibilities. First, the article investigates peace church perspectives on the Sermon. Second, taking a cue from the Sermon's hyperbolic speech, the article explores reading the Sermon as satire. Finally, the article explores this passage as a "text of terror" and concludes that each of these paradigms offer both strengths and drawbacks given the diversity of immigrant experiences.