Can Vengeance and Love Coexist in Faith?
In this article, you will learn how Judges 15:7 contradicts Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:19, Proverbs 20:22, 1 Peter 3:9 and Luke 6:27. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The biblical narrative presents a fascinating tension between the call for vengeance as demonstrated by Samson and the call for love and forgiveness emphasized in the teachings of Jesus. This contradiction highlights the diverse perspectives within the scripture that challenge readers to consider their actions and motivations deeply.
In Judges 15:7, we find Samson vowing to seek vengeance against the Philistines for personal grievances. Samson's determination to rectify wrongs through retaliation is a human response rooted in achieving personal justice. However, this approach contrasts sharply with several New Testament teachings, which advocate for love and forgiveness instead of revenge.
Consider Matthew 5:44, where believers are urged to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. This directive encourages a response that, at first glance, seems radically opposite to Samson's. Similarly, Romans 12:19 advises followers not to take revenge but to leave room for God's wrath, suggesting that divine justice surpasses human retribution.
Proverbs 20:22 also contributes to this discussion by advising against recompensating evil with evil, urging patience and trust in the Lord for deliverance. This wisdom clashes with Samson's immediate reaction to injustice.
Moreover, 1 Peter 3:9 calls for a blessing in return for insult or evil, promoting a transformative approach to conflict. Luke 6:27 further emphasizes this by encouraging good deeds toward one's enemies—an act of profound grace and challenge to the natural desire for revenge.
These contrasting teachings present a thought-provoking dichotomy: while human nature might lead us to seek justice independently, divine wisdom encourages reliance on love and patience. This tension invites believers to reflect on their path in the face of wrongdoing. Are we called to act upon our impulses, or is there greater wisdom in seeking divine guidance and embracing forgiveness? The scriptures offer insights but leave the ultimate decision to each individual's journey of faith.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Judges 15:7 | And Samson said unto them, Though ye have done this, yet will I be avenged of you, and after that I will cease. |
| 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. | Proverbs 20:22 | Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee. |
| 5. | 1 Peter 3:9 | Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. |
| 6. | Luke 6:27 | But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, |