Topical Encyclopedia Revenge, the act of retaliating or seeking retribution for a wrong suffered, is a theme addressed in various passages throughout the Bible. The Scriptures consistently discourage personal vengeance, emphasizing that retribution belongs to God alone. This entry explores the biblical perspective on revenge and the consequences of taking justice into one's own hands.Old Testament Teachings The Old Testament law provided a framework for justice, emphasizing fairness and proportionality. However, personal revenge was not sanctioned. Leviticus 19:18 instructs, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD." This command underscores the importance of love and forgiveness over personal retaliation. In Deuteronomy 32:35 , God declares, "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay." This passage highlights the divine prerogative in matters of justice, reminding the Israelites that God is the ultimate judge who will administer justice in His time and way. Examples of Revenge and Its Consequences The narrative of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 illustrates the destructive nature of revenge. Cain's act of vengeance against his brother Abel led to a curse and separation from God's presence. This account serves as an early example of the consequences of taking justice into one's own hands. Another example is found in the account of Absalom, who sought revenge against his brother Amnon for the violation of their sister Tamar (2 Samuel 13). Absalom's actions led to a cycle of violence and ultimately his own downfall, demonstrating the destructive consequences of revenge within a family and a nation. New Testament Teachings The New Testament reinforces the Old Testament's teachings on revenge, urging believers to leave vengeance to God. Romans 12:19 states, "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.'" This passage encourages Christians to trust in God's justice rather than seeking personal retribution. Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount further emphasize the call to love and forgiveness. In Matthew 5:38-39 , Jesus instructs, "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." This radical call to non-retaliation challenges believers to respond to wrongdoing with grace and mercy. The Role of Civil Authorities While personal revenge is discouraged, the Bible acknowledges the role of civil authorities in administering justice. Romans 13:4 describes governing authorities as "God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." This passage affirms the legitimacy of governmental justice systems in maintaining order and punishing evildoers, distinguishing between personal vengeance and lawful justice. Conclusion The biblical perspective on revenge is clear: personal retaliation is discouraged, and believers are called to trust in God's justice. Through both Old and New Testament teachings, the Scriptures advocate for love, forgiveness, and reliance on divine judgment, while recognizing the role of civil authorities in maintaining justice. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 25:15-17Thus said the Lord GOD; Because the Philistines have dealt by revenge, and have taken vengeance with a despiteful heart, to destroy it for the old hatred; Nave's Topical Index Amos 1:11,12 Library Of the Justice of the Punishment with which Our First Parents were ... Whether the Philosopher Suitably Assigns the Species of Anger? Whether the Blessed Rejoice in the Punishment of the Wicked? Fulfilling of the Law in the Higher Sense. --Particular Examples ... Luke x. The Latter Part of the 25Th Verse. Whether by Divine Justice an Eternal Punishment is Inflicted on ... Whether the Aforesaid virtues are Parts of Temperance? How Jehu was Anointed King, and Slew Both Joram and Ahaziah; as ... Whether Vengeance is Lawful? Chapter xx. 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 |
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