Those who walk the miracle mile are changed people. When did you last go the extra mile for someone?

1 – The principle of the miracle mile (vs. 38)

The Persians had a law that a soldier could take a civilian to carry their burden for a mile. This was a humiliation. The Romans do this also. The Romans enjoyed making the Jews do this. Jesus wanted them to do double duty! The Jews would mark off one mile and do no more. You must do more than what is required by law. Too many people have a minimum morality. Are we prepared to do more than what is required by the law?

2 – The practice of the miracle mile (vs. 38-39)

Jesus is not saying that we are not to protect ourselves or our family. Jesus is not saying we are to be pacifists. See Romans 12:17-13:4 and 1 Peter 2:13-14. You legislate AGAINST immorality rather than FOR morality. You are not to take personal vengeance. You are not to stand up for your own rights. See Matthew 26:27. Jesus did not slap back. When someone insults you – you are to turn the other cheek. See verse 40. If you do wrong, do not just pay what is due – the minimum – do more than what is required. See verse 42. Don’t just pay what you owe. See verse 46. Do you just love, give and help those who love you? What is different about this? See 1 John 3:17-18. You do not give people your car, house, etc. You do not give to an alcoholic who will not work. We are to pay more than what we owe!

3 – The power of the miracle mile

There is great power if you walk that extra mile!

• It will change your attitude – The second mile is the smile mile! The first mile is the slave mile. You are the victim. In the second mile you have conquered yourself and others. You do it because you want to.
• It will make you a success. A dose a day keeps the devil away! You’ve got to do more than what you’re paid to do or expected. Whistle while you work!
• It is the key to better relationships and witnessing. You need to go the second mile to win others for Christ. Do what Jesus said to do!

Categories: Matthew