← Back to Search

Matthew 5:40

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

If someone takes you to court and wins your shirt, give them your jacket too.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

When someone wrongs you legally, respond with unexpected generosity instead of revenge.

📚 Historical Context

This verse is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, where He was teaching His followers about living out God's kingdom principles in a world marked by Roman oppression and everyday conflicts. In first-century Jewish society, legal disputes over basic items like clothing were common, as people often sued for possessions in courts influenced by Roman law. Jesus used this example to illustrate a higher standard of non-retaliation and sacrificial love, encouraging His listeners to respond to injustice with unexpected generosity rather than defensiveness.

Ask the AI Assistant

Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.

Share or Save