How does Romans 12:17-21 support the message in 1 Thessalonians 5:15? Key Texts “Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.” “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. 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.’ On the contrary, ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Shared Heartbeat: Refusing Retaliation • Both passages flatly forbid personal payback. • The language is nearly identical—“do not repay evil for evil.” • This echoes Proverbs 20:22 and Jesus’ call in Matthew 5:38-45. Positive Pursuit: Doing Good Instead • Thessalonians adds, “Always pursue what is good.” • Romans shows what that pursuit looks like: feeding the enemy, offering peace, overcoming evil with good. • Good isn’t passive niceness; it is active benevolence (Galatians 6:10). Grounded in God’s Justice • Romans explains why we can refrain from revenge: God will handle justice—“Vengeance is Mine.” • This undergirds Thessalonians: believers can focus on good because final judgment is God’s domain (Psalm 94:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8). Living Peaceably • Romans urges peace “if it is possible on your part.” • Thessalonians widens the scope: “for one another and for all people.” • Together, they call for peace both inside the church and with the watching world (Hebrews 12:14). Overcoming Evil with Good • Romans gives the memorable summary: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” • Thessalonians sets the same trajectory—good triumphs over evil through Christ-like response (1 Peter 3:9). Practical Takeaways – Check motives: Am I trusting God’s justice or craving personal payback? – Replace retaliation with concrete acts of kindness. – Seek peace proactively, not just the absence of conflict. – Remember: doing good is God’s chosen weapon against evil; it displays Christ’s victory (Colossians 2:15). |
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