Here’s where the language flirts with going against biblical principles:
“Bemoaning the rise of leftism is no longer enough, and turning the other cheek in our personal relationships with our neighbors as Jesus taught while abdicating our responsibilities on the cultural battlefield is no longer sufficient. There is too much at stake in the battle for the soul of our nation. Bold, unapologetic action and initiative is needed, which is why we just launched the Falkirk Center, a think tank dedicated to restoring and defending American ideals and Judeo-Christian values in all aspects of life” (emphasis added).
Let me break this down:
“Bemoaning the rise of leftism is no longer enough.”
While they slightly exaggerate the plight, I can agree that “bemoaning” by itself (which is what I believe is their intent) is no longer an acceptable option. Protesting without a response is (in my opinion, anyway) pointless. But the next statement is what I want to further unpack, as the “turning the other cheek” phrase alludes to the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus taught thus:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.”
Matthew 5:38-42
Okay… here we go. Time to go into mini-sermon mode (buckle up)..
Jesus reiterates a concept from the Mosaic Law (hence Him reiterating the principle), which the crowd would readily know and understand. At that time, this concept of “eye for an eye” was originally meant to limit retribution in civil government lawsuits, and degenerated into an obligation in personal relationships. Jesus, mindful of this concept gone warped (thanks to religious leaders), and gets to the heart of the issue: personal retribution.
Culturally, a slap on the right cheek was more about a deep insult, rather than the physical attack. What Jesus essentially tells his audience is to patiently endure insults. In instances of real, physical danger, then it’s certainly appropriate to contact local law enforcement, seek protection, and so forth. In other words, we sound never seek vengeance, no matter how real the pain is. And we should heed Paul’s command: “do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom 12:21; 1 Peter 2:20-25). If the Falkirk Center wants to beget those who will take “bold, unapologetic action,” then “restoring and defending American ideals and Judeo-Christian values in all aspects of life” falls woefully short of what God has called us to do; instead, we should follow and love hard like Jesus did, whether or not our neighbors are those of the “leftism” ideology.
Philly Dad on the Run 