Abstract
As a rule of Christian behavior, the expression “turn the other cheek” has been overly used and sometimes too broadly applied. Many Christians have the impression that they are to weakly submit in the face of any opposition or demand. The present article, however, contends that it is biblical for Christians to react with appropriate and responsible assertive behavior in such situations. First, assertive behavior is seen in examples from the New Testament. Secondly, assertive behavior is viewed in the context of New Testament teachings. Finally, the application of assertiveness in the Christian context must go beyond the popular sense. Christians must exercise a radical assertiveness or temperate assertiveness depending on the need.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.