Imagine if everyone followed these teachings, this place would be paradise. I believe he's speaking to the individual. You are here on this journey alone and therefore staying true to yourself and acting as a role model to those around u. As for the evil doers for lack of a better term...They failed and their karma will be judged for that.

As for defending yourself from it, u have every right to do so where I don't think turn the other cheek applies. He taught to speak up for injustices and help those that are reachable. Humans are easily corruptible and as a whole have lost their way.(not the first time)

That doesn't mean u can't be the beacon of light.