Borrow

In Matthew 5:42 , Jesus cites generosity “from him that would borrow of thee” as one example of an unexpected, loving response (instead of the typical self-protective response) to others' demands and abuses. In each example (Matthew 5:38-42 ) the disciple's primary concern is the other person, not protecting one's own vested interests. The second person singular in Matthew 5:42 makes clear the personal nature of this response to the would-be borrower. This passage is part of Jesus' consistent emphasis on absolute loyalty to the way of God's kingdom, which necessitates a carefree regard for one's possessions ( Matthew 6:24-34 ) and personal security (Matthew 5:43-48 ) as one unselfishly loves the neighbor.

David Nelson Duke