"Vengeance Is Mine"
Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil;
cleave to that which is good.
Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in
honour preferring one another;
Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in
prayer;
Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that
weep.
Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high
things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your
own conceits.
Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in
the sight of all men.
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with
all men.
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place
unto wrath: for it is written. Vengeance is mine; I will repay,
saith the Lord.
Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give
him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his
head.
Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
In this passage from Romans, Paul sets forth a blueprint for Christian conduct. He urges believers to embody love and integrity, avoiding deceit and evil. By emphasizing brotherly love and humility, he encourages a harmonious community where individuals prioritize each other’s honor. Paul stresses the importance of diligence and enthusiasm in serving the Lord and underscores the necessity of patience and persistent prayer during trials. The passage advocates generosity and hospitality, even towards those who persecute. Paul cautions against retaliation, urging believers to leave vengeance to God, as "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord." This divine assurance liberates believers from seeking revenge, empowering them instead to respond with kindness. By feeding an enemy, one symbolically "heaps coals of fire on his head," a metaphor for stirring their conscience. Ultimately, Paul urges overcoming evil with good, transforming adversities into opportunities for grace and growth.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.