And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.
And {G2532} whosoever {G3748} shall compel {G29} thee {G4571} to go {G29} a {G1520} mile {G3400}, go {G5217} with {G3326} him {G846} twain {G1417}.
And if a soldier forces you to carry his pack for one mile, carry it for two!
and if someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.
And whosoever shall compel thee to go one mile, go with him two.
-
Luke 23:26
¶ And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear [it] after Jesus. -
Matthew 27:32
And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross. -
Mark 15:21
And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.
Matthew 5:41, found within Jesus' pivotal Sermon on the Mount, presents a radical call to action that challenges conventional responses to injustice and imposition.
Context
This verse is part of a series of teachings where Jesus redefines the Law of Moses, moving beyond mere legalistic observance to a deeper, heart-level transformation. Specifically, it follows His instructions on turning the other cheek and giving one's cloak as well as a coat. The phrase "compel thee to go a mile" refers to a common practice under Roman occupation. Roman soldiers or officials had the legal right to conscript civilians for forced service, such as carrying military equipment or messages, for a specific distance (often one Roman mile). This practice, known as angareia, was a deeply resented imposition on the Jewish people.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The KJV word "compel" comes from the Greek verb angareuo (ἀγγαρεύω), which specifically refers to this practice of forced requisitioning by governmental or military authorities. It was a well-understood term in the first-century Roman world, highlighting the specific and burdensome nature of the demand Jesus' audience would have faced.
Practical Application
Matthew 5:41 challenges believers to apply this principle in modern life, extending beyond literal forced marches:
Ultimately, Matthew 5:41 is a powerful call to embody the selfless love of Christ, even when faced with inconvenience or injustice, and to exemplify the radical love for enemies that defines true discipleship.