Topical Encyclopedia Revenge, the act of retaliating or seeking retribution for a wrong suffered, is a concept that is addressed multiple times throughout the Bible. The Scriptures consistently guide believers away from the path of vengeance and towards a life characterized by love, forgiveness, and grace. This entry explores the biblical perspective on revenge and the call to exhibit love instead.Old Testament Insights The Old Testament law, while allowing for justice, also introduces the principle of restraint. 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 over retaliation, even within the context of a legal system that permitted retributive justice. The wisdom literature further emphasizes the futility and destructiveness of 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 expands on the Old Testament's teachings by presenting a radical call to love one's enemies. Jesus Christ, in His Sermon on the Mount, instructs His followers in Matthew 5:38-39 , "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." This teaching challenges believers to respond to wrongdoing with grace and humility, rather than seeking revenge. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 12:17-21 , where he 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.' 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." Paul emphasizes that vengeance belongs to God and that believers are called to overcome evil with acts of kindness and love. The Example of Christ The ultimate example of rejecting revenge and exhibiting love is found in Jesus Christ Himself. Despite being wronged, mocked, and crucified, Jesus chose forgiveness over retaliation. In Luke 23:34 , as He hung on the cross, Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." His response to His persecutors exemplifies the highest form of love and forgiveness, setting a standard for all believers to follow. Practical Application In practical terms, the call to exhibit love instead of taking revenge requires a transformation of the heart and mind. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of forgiveness and to seek reconciliation rather than harboring bitterness or seeking retribution. This transformation is made possible through the work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers Christians to love as Christ loved. Furthermore, the community of believers is called to support one another in this endeavor, encouraging each other to live out the principles of love and forgiveness in their daily lives. By doing so, they bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel and reflect the character of Christ to the world. Torrey's Topical Textbook 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. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 6:35 Library Christ's People --Imitators of Him A Call to Holy Living Matt. vi. 1 Letter to a Young Widow. The Third Continental Journey. That the Fast of Lent is not Sufficient to Make us Competent to ... Exposition of the Moral Law. Of the True Church. Duty of Cultivating Unity with Her, as the ... 2 Thessalonians i. 9, 10 Paul's Departure and Crown; 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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