Clicky

What Does the Bible Say About Vengeance? – Viral Believer
Skip to content

What Does the Bible Say About Vengeance?

Introduction

Are you struggling with feelings of anger or the desire for revenge? As Christians, it is important to understand what the Bible teaches about vengeance. Vengeance is a powerful emotion that can lead to destructive behavior, and understanding biblical teachings can help us navigate our emotions and reactions to offenses.

In this blog post, we will explore the concept of vengeance in the Bible, biblical teachings on vengeance, the cultural context of biblical teachings on vengeance, and how to apply biblical teachings on vengeance.

The Bible provides several examples of vengeance, such as God’s judgment on the wicked and the nation of Israel’s retaliation against their enemies.

However, it is crucial to understand the difference between vengeance and justice. Justice is the righting of wrongs through legal means, while vengeance involves taking matters into one’s own hands.

Furthermore, the Bible teaches that vengeance ultimately belongs to God. Therefore, while we may feel a desire for vengeance, we should trust that God will ultimately bring justice and judgment.

As we explore the biblical teachings on vengeance, we will also examine the cultural context of these teachings. During biblical times, honor and shame were critical values, and retaliation was seen as a way to restore honor and avoid shame.

Additionally, the concept of “an eye for an eye” was prevalent during this time. However, Jesus challenged this principle, teaching a radical approach to forgiveness and non-retaliation.

By understanding the cultural context of biblical teachings, we can gain a deeper understanding of how to apply these teachings in our lives today.

vengeance in the Bible

What is Vengeance According to the Bible?

The Bible defines vengeance as the act of taking revenge or punishment for an offense. The Bible provides several examples of vengeance, such as God’s judgment on the wicked and the nation of Israel’s retaliation against their enemies.

However, it is crucial to understand the difference between vengeance and justice. Justice is the righting of wrongs through legal means, while vengeance involves taking matters into one’s own hands.

It is also important to understand that the Bible teaches that vengeance ultimately belongs to God. Romans 12:19 says, “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

Therefore, while we may feel a desire for vengeance, we should trust that God will ultimately bring justice and judgment.

Biblical Teachings on Vengeance

Old Testament Teachings on Vengeance

The Old Testament provides several teachings on vengeance. Proverbs 20:22 says, “Do not say, ‘I will recompense evil’; wait for the Lord, and He will save you.” This verse instructs us to wait on the Lord to bring justice rather than take matters into our own hands.

Deuteronomy 32:35 says, “Vengeance is Mine, and recompense; their foot shall slip in due time; for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things to come hasten upon them.” This verse reinforces the idea that vengeance belongs to God, and He will bring judgment in due time.

New Testament Teachings on Vengeance

The New Testament also provides teachings on vengeance.

Romans 12:17-21 says, “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.

Therefore, ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

This passage emphasizes the importance of living peaceably with others and not seeking revenge. Instead, we are to trust in God’s justice and respond to evil with good.

The Concept of Forgiveness in Relation to Vengeance

The Bible also teaches about forgiveness in relation to vengeance. Matthew 6:14-15 says, “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

This verse highlights the importance of forgiveness in our lives. Forgiveness can help us overcome the desire for vengeance and allow us to move forward in love and grace.

Understanding the Cultural Context of Biblical Teachings on Vengeance

To fully understand the biblical teachings on vengeance, it is important to understand the cultural context in which they were written. During biblical times, honor and shame were critical values. Retaliation was seen as a way to restore honor and avoid shame.

Additionally, the concept of “an eye for an eye” was prevalent during this time. This principle states that the punishment should fit the crime.

However, Jesus challenged this principle in Matthew 5:38-39, saying, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.”

Jesus taught a radical approach to forgiveness and non-retaliation, which was counter-cultural at the time.

Application of Biblical Teachings on Vengeance

Understanding the biblical teachings on vengeance can help Christians apply them in their lives. Here are some examples of how we can apply these teachings:

  • Respond to personal offenses with forgiveness and love instead of seeking revenge (Matthew 6:14-15).
  • Trust in God’s justice rather than taking matters into our own hands (Romans 12:19).
  • Respond to evil with good (Romans 12:21).
  • Seek reconciliation and peace instead of retaliation (Matthew 5:9).

It is also essential to note that throughout history, Christians have applied biblical teachings on vengeance in different ways. For example, during the Civil Rights Movement, Christian leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized non-violent resistance as a means of seeking justice.

In contrast, during the Crusades, some Christians used violence and retaliation to defend their faith. Therefore, it is crucial to apply biblical teachings on vengeance in a way that reflects God’s love and justice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding what the Bible says about vengeance is crucial for Christians. The Bible teaches that vengeance ultimately belongs to God, and we should trust in His justice rather than seeking revenge.

Additionally, the concepts of forgiveness and non-retaliation are essential in understanding the biblical teachings on vengeance. By applying these teachings in our lives, we can live in peace and love, reflecting God’s character.

It is important to note that throughout history, Christians have applied biblical teachings on vengeance in different ways. As we apply these teachings in our lives, we should strive to do so in a way that reflects God’s love and justice.

Seeking reconciliation and peace rather than retaliation can be a powerful witness to the world.

In a world that often glorifies revenge and retaliation, Christians have the opportunity to demonstrate a different way of living.

By trusting in God’s justice, forgiving others, and responding to evil with good, we can show the transformative power of God’s love. Let us seek to apply the biblical teachings on vengeance in our lives and reflect God’s character to the world around us.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.