How does Esther 9:7 connect to Romans 12:19 on vengeance? Setting the Scene in Esther 9:7 “including Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha,” (Esther 9:7) • These three names are the first of Haman’s ten sons. • Their deaths occur during the legally sanctioned defense of the Jews on the thirteenth day of Adar (Esther 9:1–5). • Verse 10 adds, “they did not lay their hands on the plunder,” signaling that this action was not about personal profit but the execution of justice. Divine Justice on Display • Haman had plotted genocide (Esther 3:6, 13). • God’s providence reversed the decree (Esther 8:11), placing the sword of justice in the Jews’ hands. • By listing the sons by name, Scripture underlines a complete, measured repayment—evil is answered in kind, yet within clear, God-ordained limits (Esther 9:16-17). Romans 12:19—The Principle Stated “Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: ‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.’” (Romans 12:19; quoting Deuteronomy 32:35) Points of Connection • Source of Vengeance – Esther 9: divine vengeance executed through a lawful decree, illustrating God repaying evil. – Romans 12: God reserves the right of vengeance; believers relinquish personal retaliation. • Instrument of Vengeance – Esther: God often uses human agents (Esther 9:5) or governing authorities (cf. Romans 13:4) to carry out His judgment. – Romans: Individual believers are called to step back and trust God’s timing and means. • Motivation Check – Esther: No plundering (Esther 9:10) shows justice, not greed. – Romans: The heart is guarded from bitterness; vengeance is handed to God. Complementary Scriptures • Proverbs 20:22 — “Do not say, ‘I will avenge this evil!’ Wait on the LORD, and He will deliver you.” • 1 Samuel 26:10 — David refuses to kill Saul, trusting the LORD to strike him when He wills. • Psalm 94:1 — “O LORD, God of vengeance… shine forth!” Practical Takeaways • Trust God’s Sovereign Hand: Just as He turned Haman’s plot on its head, He still repays wickedness in His perfect way and time. • Reject Personal Retaliation: When wronged, choose the Romans 12:19 path—release the desire to strike back. • Respect God-Ordained Authority: Civil or judicial means of justice can be legitimate instruments of God’s vengeance (Romans 13:1-4), as seen in Esther’s royal decree. • Guard Your Motives: The Jews’ refusal to seize plunder models justice without selfish gain; believers today seek God’s honor, not personal payoff. |
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