“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 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. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good“
Romans 12:17-21
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This is perhaps one of the most challenging teachings Jesus left His disciples. If we go back to the sermon on the Mount, we will notice that Paul is paraphrasing some of the central teachings of Jesus about loving others and paying evil with evil. Jesus redirects the Old Testament’s conventional way of justice with a merciful and sacrificial approach. Let us remember and compare the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:
“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. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
Matthew 5:39-42
In his letter to the Romans (12:17), Paul begins by urging believers not to repay evil for evil but to do what is honorable in the sight of everyone. This instruction challenges our natural inclination to seek revenge or retaliate when we are wronged. Instead, we are called to uphold righteousness and pursue peace, even when faced with hostility. As it depends on us, we must be peacemakers, fostering an environment conducive to understanding and forgiveness.
Paul also challenges believers to respond to their enemies with unexpected kindness and generosity. Instead of bearing bitterness or resentment, we are called to show love and compassion, even to those who have wronged us. This radical approach to conflict resolution reflects the transformative power of God’s love, which can overcome even the most profound hatred and hostility.
As we reflect on these verses, let us consider our responses to conflict and wrongdoing. Are we quick to seek revenge or retaliate when wronged, or do we strive for reconciliation and peace? Do we trust in God’s justice, or do we need to take matters into our own hands?
Ultimately, as we seek to live out the principles outlined in Romans 12:17-21, may we be empowered by the example of Christ, who overcame evil with good and calls us to do the same.
Questions for reflection and discussion:
- How do you typically respond when wronged or mistreated by others?
- Do you seek revenge or strive for reconciliation and peace?
- Are you willing to trust in God’s justice and leave room for Him to repay wrongdoing rather than take matters into your own hands?
- How can you actively overcome evil with good in your relationships and interactions with others?
Church Reading Plan:
- Today, April 26: Song of Solomon 1; Hebrews 1
- Saturday, April 27: Song of Solomon 2; Hebrews 2
- Sunday, April 28: Song of Solomon 3; Hebrews 3