Human nature often compels us to seek revenge when we feel wronged, but the Bible provides a different perspective. In Scripture, we are called to leave vengeance to God, as He alone is the righteous Judge. The phrase “Revenge is mine,” found in Romans 12:19, is a central message that emphasizes God’s exclusive right to repay wrongs. This concept is rooted in the character of God and serves as a reminder that His justice is perfect, timely, and just.
The theme of “revenge is mine” recurs throughout the Bible, instructing believers to abstain from retaliation and instead pursue forgiveness, trust, and faith. This article will explore 22 Bible verses that address the subject of revenge, highlighting how believers are encouraged to respond to hurt and injustice. By examining these Scriptures, we gain insight into God’s perspective on vengeance, the power of forgiveness, and the peace that comes from trusting in His ultimate justice.
The Old Testament’s Guidance on Vengeance
The Old Testament lays a foundation for understanding the biblical view on vengeance and God’s role in administering justice.
1. Deuteronomy 32:35
“It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them.”
This verse is one of the most direct statements of God’s role in avenging wrongs. God’s timing for justice is perfect, even if it seems delayed.
2. Leviticus 19:18
“Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”
Instructing against revenge, this verse emphasizes love over retaliation, foreshadowing Jesus’ command to love our neighbors.
3. Psalm 94:1
“The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth.”
The psalmist calls upon God’s character as the ultimate avenger, affirming His power to defend the oppressed.
4. Proverbs 20:22
“Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the Lord, and he will avenge you.”
This wisdom from Proverbs warns against taking revenge and encourages believers to rely on God’s justice.
5. Proverbs 24:29
“Do not say, ‘I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did.’”
This proverb reinforces the importance of avoiding retaliation and highlights patience and forgiveness.
6. Exodus 14:14
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
When the Israelites faced the Egyptian army, God instructed them to trust in His deliverance, a message that applies to those tempted to seek vengeance.
God’s Justice and Vengeance in the Psalms
The Psalms are filled with calls for God’s justice and expressions of confidence in His righteous judgment.
7. Psalm 37:8-9
“Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.”
The psalmist warns against letting anger lead to vengeance, reassuring believers that God’s justice will prevail.
8. Psalm 140:12
“I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy.”
God’s commitment to justice is emphasized here, reminding believers to trust in His defense of the vulnerable.
9. Psalm 18:47
“He is the God who avenges me, who subdues nations under me.”
David acknowledges God’s role as avenger, expressing trust in God’s power to deliver justice.
10. Psalm 10:17-18
“You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.”
The psalmist finds comfort in God’s attentive care for the oppressed, affirming that God sees and responds to injustice.
New Testament Teachings on Forgiveness Over Revenge
The New Testament emphasizes forgiveness and calls for believers to follow Christ’s example of mercy and love.
11. Romans 12:19
“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.”
Paul’s words echo the Old Testament, emphasizing that vengeance belongs to God, not to us.
12. Matthew 5:39
“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.”
Jesus’ teachings encourage radical forgiveness, urging His followers to break the cycle of retaliation.
13. 1 Thessalonians 5:15
“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.”
Paul calls for goodness and kindness, even in response to wrongdoing, which reflects the love of Christ.
14. Luke 6:27-28
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
Jesus challenges His followers to respond to hate with love, urging them to trust in God rather than take vengeance.
15. 1 Peter 3:9
“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.”
Peter reinforces the idea of forgiveness, reminding believers that their actions should reflect God’s grace.
Leaving Justice to God: Trusting His Perfect Timing
The Bible assures believers that God sees every injustice and will act in His time.
16. Nahum 1:2-3
“The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on his foes and vents his wrath against his enemies.”
This passage underscores God’s commitment to justice, highlighting His righteous anger against evil.
17. Isaiah 35:4
“Say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.’”
This verse brings comfort to those who feel wronged, promising that God’s justice is on the way.
18. Jeremiah 51:36
“Therefore this is what the Lord says: ‘See, I will defend your cause and avenge you.’”
God’s declaration of defense reassures His people that He is their ultimate protector.
Examples of Restraint and Forgiveness in Action
The Bible also provides powerful examples of individuals who chose forgiveness over revenge.
19. Joseph’s Forgiveness (Genesis 50:20)
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Joseph forgave his brothers, recognizing that God used their actions for a greater purpose.
20. David and Saul (1 Samuel 24:12)
“May the Lord judge between you and me. And may the Lord avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you.”
David spared Saul’s life, leaving judgment to God rather than taking matters into his own hands.
21. Stephen’s Prayer (Acts 7:60)
“Then he fell on his knees and cried out, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’”
Stephen’s last words were a prayer for forgiveness for his persecutors, reflecting Christ’s love.
Forgiveness as a Reflection of God’s Love
Forgiveness is not only a response to God’s command but also a testimony to His love.
22. Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Forgiveness mirrors the mercy believers receive from God, setting them apart from the world.
Conclusion
The Bible’s guidance on vengeance is a reminder of God’s sovereignty, justice, and love. These 22 verses underscore that revenge belongs to God alone. By trusting Him to handle justice, believers can experience peace, freedom from bitterness, and the joy of living in God’s grace. Embracing forgiveness, Christians reflect God’s love and reveal the strength of their faith in His perfect justice.
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