Topical Encyclopedia Revenge, the act of retaliating or seeking retribution for a wrong suffered, stands in stark contrast to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. The New Testament provides clear guidance on how believers are to respond to offenses, emphasizing forgiveness, love, and leaving judgment to God.Teachings of Jesus Jesus' Sermon on the Mount offers foundational teachings on how His followers should respond to wrongdoing. In Matthew 5:38-39 , Jesus states, "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 someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also." Here, Jesus challenges the traditional understanding of justice and retaliation, urging His followers to adopt a posture of non-retaliation and grace. Further, in Matthew 5:44 , Jesus commands, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This radical call to love and pray for adversaries underscores the inconsistency of revenge with the will of Christ. Instead of seeking vengeance, believers are to extend love and seek the spiritual well-being of those who wrong them. Apostolic Teachings The apostles, following the teachings of Christ, reinforced the message of non-retaliation and forgiveness. In Romans 12:17-19 , the Apostle Paul writes, "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 called to live peaceably, trusting in God's justice. Similarly, in 1 Peter 3:9 , Peter instructs, "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." The call to respond with blessing rather than retaliation aligns with the transformative power of the Gospel, which seeks to overcome evil with good. The Example of Christ The life of Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of rejecting revenge. Despite suffering unjustly, Jesus did not retaliate. In 1 Peter 2:23 , it is written, "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." Jesus' response to suffering and injustice was to entrust Himself to the Father, demonstrating the path of humility and trust in divine justice. Practical Implications for Believers For Christians, the call to reject revenge and embrace forgiveness is both a command and a reflection of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. By choosing forgiveness over retaliation, believers testify to the power of the Gospel and the character of Christ. This approach not only fosters personal peace but also serves as a witness to the world of the love and grace found in Jesus Christ. In summary, revenge is inconsistent with the will of Christ as revealed in Scripture. Believers are called to a higher standard of love, forgiveness, and trust in God's ultimate justice, reflecting the heart of the Savior who forgave even those who crucified Him. Nave's Topical Index Luke 9:55But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, You know not what manner of spirit you are of. Nave's Topical Index Library The Tests of Love to God The Death of Christ for his People A Call to Holy Living The Sufferings of Christ Reconciled with the Goodness of God. Sanctification Nineteenth Sunday after Trinity Duty to New and Old Man. The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, Wandering Thoughts Man Now Deprived of Freedom of Will, and Miserably Enslaved. Of Evil Angels Resources What does the Bible say about revenge? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the law of retribution? | GotQuestions.org What does Psalm 137:9 mean when it says, “Happy is the one who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks”? | 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 |
    |