Isaac’s Nonresistance

Background Scripture: Genesis 26; Matthew 5:38-48
Lesson Scripture: Genesis 26:17-25

Introduction

Nonresistance is a biblical teaching, modeled by Jesus and taught to his followers by example and instruction. Undergirded by the hope brought to pass with Jesus’s death and resurrection, nonresistance is exemplified in the fruit of the Spirit: in love, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, and meekness. In today’s lesson, we are looking at a foreshadow of Christian nonresistance, lived out by Isaac as he followed God in faith.

As we look at faithful examples of the past, our trust in God’s way can be strengthened and our convictions deepened. God has not promised us an easy way, but the way of the transgressor is much more difficult (Pro. 13:15). We do not know what tomorrow may hold, but we know Who holds tomorrow. May we keep our eyes on the eternal goal.

Key Verse

But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also (Matt. 5:39).

Lesson Scripture

Studying the Lesson

Isaac had experienced a time of prosperity. Both Abraham and Isaac followed a nomadic lifestyle, and needed to keep peace with the other occupants of the land, especially those who were more permanent residents. The increase of Isaac’s possessions could likely have brought about the envy of the Philistine neighbors. It would seem only natural that Isaac could have used his increased wealth or power as an advantage against his neighbors.

The husbandry of their animals was a daily responsibility, and water needed to be provided for the flocks on a daily basis. Even today, water resources remain a matter of contention. Surely Isaac remembered how his father had handled the situation between his herdsmen and those of Lot, as told in Genesis 13:8. Abraham told Isaac of God’s provision on the journey up Mount Moriah (Gen. 22:8). Interestingly, Abraham also had contentions with Abimelech over water, and Abraham sought a peaceful settlement (Gen. 21:25-27). Just as Abraham gave a faithful example for Isaac to follow, we can appreciate the witness of those who have likewise given us living examples of nonresistance.

Abimelech, king of the Philistines, later returned to Isaac. Isaac seemed worried about his approach; was he tempted to wonder at that point if Abimelech could ever be trusted? He came however, to bless Isaac and make a treaty of peace. If Isaac had sought immediate retribution over the strife about water, it is likely that Abimelech would have sought war instead of peace. Seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness (Matt. 6:33) should be the primary endeavor of the Christian. God also knows we have needs, and we ask Him to give us our daily bread. At times, the quest for bread and seeking the kingdom of God may seem in opposition to each other. Even our material provision comes from God, and He receives honor and glory through a Christian’s daily life, including our occupations, our dealings with neighbors, and even our willingness to be taken advantage of.

Practical Truths for Today

Jesus’s call includes the promise of soul rest but also the command to take up his yoke (Matt. 11:28-30). When we answer his call, we become yoked to his will. As servants, it is not for us to choose if and when to defend ourselves but to follow our master. We are called only to fight against our spiritual enemies, not fleshly ones (Eph. 6:12), and God will give the strength needed in the spiritual battles we are called to endure (1 Cor. 10:13).

Nonresistance is an action of obedience to God that is in opposition to the fleshly will. Experience teaches us that God rewards his children; however, there is an up-front cost to the command, “Resist not evil.” Unfairness begs to be avenged. Proverbs tells us that “every way of a man is right in his own eyes” (Prov. 21:2). Often, prejudices acted upon with ill will, anger, or animosity will result in an ever-escalating spiral of retribution. Jesus came to bring healing—mercy met justice in his death on the cross. His followers are called to live out the message of reconciliation to the world, whether it be by life or by death.

Jesus said that his kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). From this we understand his followers do not fight. Although this means not serving in military service, it really begins at home in a Christian’s daily life. This includes avoiding political contention and becoming involved with opinions on government, party, or political figures. It may not be possible for the Christian to avoid the legal system altogether, but when it becomes necessary, he should come as a supplicant and portray the spirit of Christ to those involved. Many stories are told of God softening the heart of people in the seat of judicial power through the faithful witness of his children.

Nonresistance is not limited to exemption from military service, government matters, or legal entanglement. In fact, if a young man or woman is to be prepared to testify for their faith before magistrates, they should have practical experience in following the laws of the land and living in peace with parents, authorities, and coworkers. Time given in mission and service programs can be a time of spiritual growth and Christian witness. Learning firsthand how a soft answer turns away wrath (Prov. 15:1), will be of life-long benefit. Selflessness and compassion are Christian virtues, and life gives ample opportunity for their cultivation.

Jesus’s teachings cannot be separated from community life. Practical nonresistance can only be lived by an individual who has a personal relationship with God. The child of God is strengthened by the historical “great cloud of witnesses” (Heb. 12:1), and being submitted to the body of like-minded believers gives strength in a time of test. Although we are not always in the physical presence of fellow believers, the association of brotherhood and the prayers of the church give direction and strength. Instead of seeing individuals trying to follow God in the strength of their own flesh, the world beholds the power of the crucified and resurrected Lord working through the body. “A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid” (Matt. 5:14).

If God will give us the protection that we need, is there ever a time to express that our rights are being stepped on? Should we not move out of harm’s way when the opportunity presents itself? God expects us to make our way through this world while keeping our eyes on heaven. Jesus told the disciples, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another” (Matt. 10:23). In times of test there is safety in the multitude of counsellors (Prov. 11:14). A Christian witness need not be destroyed when a person makes their needs known. Christian meekness can still be evident as a person “flees into another city.”

The Christian who has experienced God’s grace and forgiveness can extend grace and forgiveness, even though it may not be received, reciprocated, or appreciated. Forgiveness and nonresistance open doors of healing that revenge can never bring. To the human nature, forgiveness seems like an impossible hurdle. To the redeemed heart, the grace of God can overcome evil with good by committing the wrong and the wrongdoer into Jesus’s nail-scarred hands and following his divine example.

Questions

1. How are we to identify and deal with the Christian nationalism that seeks prominence in the world around us? What are its perils?
2. Should we fear our nonresistance will be perceived as cowardice?
3. If nonresistance needs to be both a personal conviction and our church’s identity, what will be the result if either is missing or weak?
4. Are we respectful enough of civil authorities? When are we too fearful? See Romans 13.
5. What is the Christian’s duty in exposing injustice and corruption?

Source: COGICM Daily Bible Readings (Daily Bible Readings, PO Box 124, Glenn, CA 95943).