During the time of Roman occupation, soldiers were permitted to compel any passersby to carry their armor and belongings for up to one mile. Although a welcome perk for the soldier, it was nonetheless demoralizing to the Jews who considered it a type of degradation. To remedy the situation, Christ offers up a simple solution: if forced to go one mile, joyfully go two! Therefore, by offering to go the proverbial extra mile, Jewish character is restored as they diminish Rome’s dominance.
