Should We Destroy or Love? A Biblical Puzzle
In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 13:17 contradicts Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:19, Leviticus 19:18, Proverbs 25:21-22 and Ezekiel 18:23. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible presents various teachings that sometimes seem contradictory, especially regarding responses to opposing beliefs or actions. On one hand, Deuteronomy 13:17 emphasizes God's desire for the eradication of any enticement toward idolatry, highlighting how such actions could lead to a society's growth and happiness as God promised to their ancestors. This verse reflects a stringent approach, where eliminating evil is seen as essential to invite God's kindness and blessings.
However, contrasting messages surface in other scriptures. Matthew 5:44 offers a radically different approach, advocating for love and blessings towards one's enemies. The teaching here encourages believers to transcend vengeance and embody compassion, suggesting that love can transform hostility.
Further emphasizing this notion of refraining from personal retribution, Romans 12:19 advises believers to leave vengeance to God. This suggests a hands-off approach, promoting trust in divine justice rather than acting on personal anger or judgment.
Leviticus 19:18 reinforces this theme of love and community by instructing people to love their neighbors as themselves, which stands in opposition to Deuteronomy's call for destruction in response to idolatry. This ideal nurtures societal harmony and forgiveness.
Similarly, Proverbs 25:21-22 presents a powerful analogy: by showing kindness to one's enemy, the enemy might be prompted to repentance, much like softening an otherwise hardened heart.
Adding another layer, Ezekiel 18:23 shares that God delights not in the death of the wicked but in their repentance. This verse stresses God's preference for transformation over punishment.
Navigating these seemingly contradictory messages can be puzzling. Should we choose destruction or love? The Bible offers guidance in both directions, leaving believers with the profound task of discerning how to apply these teachings in their lives. How do we reconcile these approaches in our journey of faith?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Deuteronomy 13:17 | And there shall cleave nought of the cursed thing to thine hand: that the LORD may turn from the fierceness of his anger, and shew thee mercy, and have compassion upon thee, and multiply thee, as he hath sworn unto thy fathers; [cursed: or, devoted] |
| 2. | Matthew 5:44 | But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; |
| 3. | Romans 12:19 | Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. |
| 4. | Leviticus 19:18 | Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD. |
| 5. | Proverbs 25:21-22 | If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: |
| 6. | Ezekiel 18:23 | Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live? |