Topical Encyclopedia Malice, defined as the intention or desire to do evil or cause injury to another, is a sin that is addressed throughout the Bible. The Scriptures consistently warn against harboring malice and outline the consequences for those who engage in such behavior.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, malice is often associated with the broader category of wickedness and is condemned as contrary to the character of God. The Law of Moses explicitly warns against malicious behavior. For instance, 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 command underscores the expectation of love and forgiveness, contrasting sharply with malice. The Psalms and Proverbs frequently highlight the fate of the wicked, including those who act with malice. Psalm 34:21 states, "Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned." Similarly, Proverbs 11:21 assures, "Be assured that the wicked will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will escape." These passages reflect the belief that divine justice will ultimately prevail against those who harbor malicious intent. New Testament Teachings The New Testament continues to address the issue of malice, emphasizing the transformation expected in the lives of believers. In Ephesians 4:31-32 , the Apostle Paul instructs, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." This passage highlights the call to reject malice and embrace forgiveness and kindness, reflecting the new nature of those in Christ. The Apostle Peter also warns against malice in 1 Peter 2:1 , urging believers to "rid yourselves of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind." This exhortation is part of a broader call to spiritual growth and maturity, indicating that malice is incompatible with the Christian life. Divine Judgment The Bible makes it clear that those who persist in malice will face divine judgment. Romans 1:29-32 lists malice among the sins of those who have turned away from God, stating that such individuals are "filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, greed, and depravity." The passage concludes with a sobering reminder that "those who practice such things deserve death." Revelation 21:8 provides a glimpse of the ultimate punishment for the unrepentant, including those who harbor malice: "But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and the sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death." This verse underscores the eternal consequences of unrepentant sin, including malice. Call to Repentance While the Bible warns of the punishment for malice, it also offers hope through repentance and transformation. The call to turn away from malice and embrace a life of love and forgiveness is a recurring theme, inviting individuals to experience the grace and mercy available through Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Amos 1:11,12Thus said the LORD; For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because he did pursue his brother with the sword, and did cast off all pity, and his anger did tear perpetually, and he kept his wrath for ever: Torrey's Topical Textbook Obadiah 1:10-15 Library Of the Increase and the Punishment of the Christians. Whether the Consequences of the External Action Increase Its ... Whether it is More Grievous to Sin through Certain Malice than ... Whether the External Action Adds any Goodness or Malice to that of ... Whether Contrition is the Greatest Possible Sorrow in the World? Psalm 7. God's Care of his People and Punishment of Persecutors. Whether one Man Can Fulfill Satisfactory Punishment for Another? Whether the Will of the Demons is Obstinate in Evil? Of the Judgment and Punishment of the Wicked Of the Creation, Sin, and Punishment of Man; and of Angels, Both ... Resources What does the Bible say about bitterness? | GotQuestions.orgWhen is it necessary to rebuke another believer? | GotQuestions.org How can I know if the desires of my heart are from God? | GotQuestions.org Malice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Malfeasance in office: The Leasees of the Vineyard, in One of the Parables of Jesus Malfeasance in office: The Steward Mentioned in One of the Parables of Jesus Malice: A Hindrance to Growth in Grace Malice: Ahithophel Toward David Malice: Ammonites Toward the Israelites Malice: Brings Its own Punishment Malice: Christian Liberty not to be a Cloak For Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Malice: Herod Antipas Toward Jesus Malice: Incompatible With the Worship of God Malice: James and John Toward the Samaritans Malice: Joseph's Brothers Toward Joseph Malice: Masters of the Sorcerous Damsel Toward Paul Malice: Nebuchadrezzar Toward Zedekiah Malice: Philistines Toward Isaac Malice: Potiphar's Wife Toward Joseph Malice: Pray for Those Who Injure You Through Malice: Samaritans Toward the Jews Malice: Springs from an Evil Heart Malice: The Jewish Leaders Toward Jesus Malice: The Wicked: Filled With Malice: The Wicked: Speak With Malice: The Wicked: Visit Saints With Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) |
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