Yes, Christians can set limits. Not knowing the circumstances behind the question and the wrongs committed, we can only briefly deal with the principles. We can’t change others or society; we are only responsible for ourselves.
Jesus did turn the other cheek when smitten by the High Priest’s servants, but he also spoke up on this occasion. He asked, “If I have done wrong tell me, if I have done no wrong why do you hit me?” (John 18:23) He didn’t take revenge by word or action, he merely asked a question of one who as a representative of the High Priest claimed to be upholding justice and God’s laws. In his case, Jesus didn’t press the matter further and demand to be released. He knew he had come into the world to die as our Savior. (Matthew 10:28) He did make the point that they had no charge against him. He had done no wrong. He was submissive to the injustice for he knew he was to die at their hands. (Matthew 26:2)
The Apostle Paul was beaten, falsely accused and arrested. (See Acts 21:27-40) He did appeal to the authorities for a trial and did not just submit to the injustice. “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman and uncondemned?” (Act 22:25) From his example, we learn that we are at liberty to use any legitimate legal means for our own assistance and deliverance. In his case he asked for a fair trial, but he never received it. His life and travels were restricted from that time until his death – by what tradition says was during the reign of Nero. In Paul’s case the Lord overruled. During this time Paul wrote most of his letters to the churches which later formed the majority of the New Testament. Thus, for a greater purpose, God can and does overrule the wrongs done to us.
Sometimes we need to let others (especially Christians) know they are misunderstanding or acting unjustly. Our explanation should present the facts in a kind manner. We are never to return an evil deed with an evil deed. Oftentimes we need to withdraw or put as much distance as possible between ourselves and the offending party. Paul did this. When he was persecuted in one city, he left. This is not desirable, but it at times it is the best that can be done. We are not to seek revenge.
Christians are to follow the advice of Apostle Paul, “Do not give evil for evil to any man. Let all your business be well ordered in the eyes of all men. As far as it is possible for you be at peace with all men. Do not give punishment for wrongs done to you, dear brothers, but give way to the wrath of God; for it is said in the holy Writings, Punishment is mine, I will give reward, says the Lord. But if one who has hate for you is in need of food or of drink, give it to him … Do not let evil overcome you, but overcome evil by good.” (Romans 12:17-21)
