What are the Christian’s responsibilities in bringing correction?
Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation - Lesson 6, Restore with Gentleness, Questions 21, p. 90
Retaliation, an instinctive response to perceived wrongs, often feels justified in the heat of the moment. However, the biblical perspective challenges us to consider a different approach. Romans 12:19 advises, "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'"
This scripture underscores the principle that retaliation belongs not to us, but to God. When faced with injustice or harm, our natural inclination is to seek revenge, believing it will restore balance. Yet, God's word encourages us to trust Him to handle the retribution. See: False Substitute for Forgiveness: Punishing. Retaliation can lead to a cycle of violence and escalating hatred, ultimately harming both the victim and the perpetrator. True restoration, on the other hand, seeks peace and healing.
Romans 12 goes further, urging us to overcome evil with good, to bless those who persecute us, and to live in harmony with one another. This radical approach to restoration fosters a community where forgiveness and grace prevail, reflecting the heart of the gospel. The idea is not to ignore wrongdoing but to respond in a way that heals and transforms, rather than perpetuates the hurt.
Retaliation should have no place in the process of restoration. Instead, we are called to embody the love and grace that Jesus demonstrated. Romans 5:8 encapsulates this gospel promise: "But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Through Christ’s sacrificial love, we see the ultimate expression of restoration without retaliation. He took the burden of our sins upon Himself, paving the way for reconciliation and peace. As followers of Christ, we are invited to extend this same grace to others, trusting in God’s justice and embracing His healing love.
This blog series is adapted from Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation. You can experience this teaching in several ways:
Bible study format through Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation OR Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
Downloadable and reproducible version of Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation
Seminar format for either Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation or Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
Webinar format for Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation or Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
FREE Recorded webinar format for Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation
FREE Online course: Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation Self Study
Kommentare