What Does the Bible Say About Revenge?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

Revenge can be a natural human impulse, but what does the Bible say about it? Essentially, the Bible advises against seeking revenge. Instead, it advocates for leaving vengeance to God and encourages forgiveness and love, even for our enemies. It teaches the principle “turn the other cheek,” urging believers to not return evil for evil.

There are numerous passages throughout the Bible, especially in the New Testament, that reiterate this concept, focusing on love, compassion, and forgiveness as opposed to retaliation. Jesus exemplifies these teachings through His actions and parables, emphasizing God’s view on revenge and how it’s not our place to enact justice.

Ever wondered about the intricate details of revenge and how the Bible intricately handles this topic? Unraveling this can offer profound insights into how we can align our lives more closely with biblical principles.

What Does the Bible Say About Revenge?

Revenge is a topic covered in various books of the Bible, and it is clear that vengeance is not ours to take. The Bible strongly discourages revenge, and instead, it directs believers to leave all vengeance to God. It is God who is the ultimate judge, and He alone has the authority to repay.

In the New Testament, Jesus preaches love and forgiveness as the core of his teachings. He teaches us to turn the other cheek when someone wrongs us, emphasizing that retaliation is not the answer to being wronged. When faced with sin and transgressions, the focus is to be on forgiveness and love, even towards those who may have harmed us.

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Paul, in his letters, also speaks against seeking revenge. He tells us to not repay anyone evil for evil, and to live at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on us. He underscores the principle that vengeance belongs to God. In a world where retaliation can seem like the norm, these teachings offer a contrasting perspective, focusing on love, peace, and reconciliation.

It’s essential to reflect on how these teachings can be integrated into our lives, influencing how we respond to situations where we might feel revenge is justified. By understanding that revenge is not allowed according to biblical teachings, we can cultivate a more forgiving and loving demeanor, exemplifying the life Jesus lived and the teachings he shared.

Bible Verses About Revenge

“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” – Romans 12:19. This verse is a clear instruction about leaving vengeance to God. It reiterates the concept that God is the ultimate judge who will execute justice in His own time.

“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” – 1 Peter 3:9. This verse conveys the message of responding to evil with good, underscoring the importance of blessings and kindness over retaliation.

“Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the Lord, and he will avenge you.” – Proverbs 20:22. Here, the guidance is to wait for the Lord rather than taking matters into our own hands, demonstrating reliance on God’s timing and justice.

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“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 5:39. Jesus, in this verse, presents a vivid image of non-resistance and encourages a response of love and forgiveness instead of revenge.

These verses collectively form a biblical view on revenge, focusing on forgiveness, love, and leaving vengeance to God. They highlight the transformative power of responding to harm with goodness and the eternal perspective on justice and retaliation. They guide believers in walking in the path that Jesus walked, filled with love, compassion, and understanding, reflecting God’s view and upholding the values taught in the New Testament.