REVENGE

It is among the most primitive of human instincts. Whether we have been cut off in traffic, unjustly criticized by a coworker, or made the victim of violent crime, our gut response is to want revenge. While there is plenty of revenge to be found in the Old Testament, God makes it clear that vengeance is to be left to him alone. Christ becomes our example of responding to injustice with truth and kindness, leaving judgment and punishment in the hands of God.

IS REVENGE EVER JUSTIFIED?

Genesis 34:1-31 . . . Simeon and Levi . . . entered the town without opposition, and slaughtered every man there.

The brothers’ desire for justice was not wrong, but allowing that desire to become vicious and violent was.

Leviticus 19:18 . . . Never seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone.

Taking personal revenge is expressly forbidden by God.

Nahum 1:1-8 . . . He sweeps away his enemies in an overwhelming flood.

God’s vengeance is not to get back or get even, but to administer righteous judgment.

Lamentations 3:55-66 . . . You have seen the wrong they have done to me, Lord. Be my judge, and prove me right.

We are to leave ultimate justice and revenge to God.

2 Thessalonians 1:5-10 . . . In his justice he will punish those who persecute you.

We do not have to take vengeance into our own hands, for God will judge and punish all wickedness.

Romans 12:17-21 . . . Never pay back evil for evil . . . conquer evil by doing good.

One wrongdoing never justifies a second.

1 Peter 2:21-27 . . . He did not retaliate when he was insulted.

Jesus is our example of refusing to take revenge against those who mistreat us.

PROMISES FROM GOD:

Proverbs 26:27 . . . If you set a trap for others, you will get caught in it yourself.

Revenge will backfire on you.

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