Topical Encyclopedia Revenge, the act of retaliating or seeking retribution for a wrong suffered, is a concept addressed multiple times in the Bible. The Scriptures consistently teach that revenge is forbidden for believers, emphasizing the importance of leaving justice to God and responding to wrongdoing with love and forgiveness.Old Testament Teachings The Old Testament lays the foundation for understanding the prohibition against revenge. In Leviticus 19:18, the Israelites are commanded, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This directive underscores the importance of love and forgiveness over personal vengeance. The wisdom literature also speaks against revenge. Proverbs 20:22 advises, "Do not say, 'I will avenge this evil!' Wait on the LORD, and He will deliver you." This verse encourages believers to trust in God's justice rather than taking matters into their own hands. New Testament Teachings The New Testament further develops the theme of refraining from revenge, with Jesus Christ and the apostles providing clear instructions. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also" (Matthew 5:38-39). Here, Jesus calls His followers to a higher standard of non-retaliation and love. The Apostle Paul echoes this teaching in his epistle to the Romans. Romans 12:17-19 states, "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.'" Paul emphasizes that vengeance belongs to God alone, and believers are to live peaceably and trust in God's righteous judgment. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ Himself exemplifies the ultimate response to wrongdoing. Despite suffering unjustly, He did not seek revenge. 1 Peter 2:23 describes His response: "When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly." Christ's example serves as the model for believers, demonstrating the power of forgiveness and trust in God's justice. Practical Implications The biblical prohibition against revenge calls believers to a life marked by forgiveness, love, and trust in God's sovereignty. By refraining from personal vengeance, Christians are called to reflect the character of Christ and to rely on God's ultimate justice. This teaching challenges believers to respond to offenses with grace and to seek reconciliation and peace, trusting that God will right all wrongs in His perfect timing. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 19:18You shall not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 24:29 Romans 12:17,19 1 Thessalonians 5:15 1 Peter 3:9 Library What are the Sins Forbidden in the Sixth Commandment? Fulfilling of the Law in the Higher Sense. --Particular Examples ... The Seventh Season, Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. Whether it is Lawful to be Angry? Whether Vengeance is Lawful? Thou Shalt not Kill. From the Fourth to the Seventh Commandment The Sermon on the Mount. If we are Enjoined, Then, to Love Our Enemies... Resources What is the just war theory? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about grudges? | GotQuestions.org How and when should we overlook an offense (Proverbs 19:11)? | GotQuestions.org Revenge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Revenge: Be Thankful for Being Kept from Taking Revenge: Christ an Example of Forbearing Revenge: Forbidden by Our Lord Revenge: Inconsistent With Christian Spirit Revenge: Inconsistent With the Will of Christ Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Bless Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Exercise Forbearance Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Exhibit Love Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Give Place to Wrath Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Overcome Others by Kindness Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Trust in God Revenge: Jesus an Example of Forbearing Revenge: Keep Others from Taking Revenge: Proceeds from a Spiteful Heart Revenge: The Wicked are Earnest After Related Terms |
    |