"You heard that it was said," Jesus says, "an eye in place of an eye, and a tooth in place of a tooth." Verse 39 is our second point, the contrast, the antithesis. Jesus Himself is making Himself be the authority. "But I myself am saying to you not to resist the evil one," or the evil person. What?! Do not resist against evil. He is not canceling out this law of retribution that had to do with retaliation in place of injury. He is saying is this law of retribution does not count when you are talking about injustice for your rights. That is a completely different area. Do not repay evil for evil but look to be at peace with all people, even when you are treated unjustly.
