Bible verses about violence.
The world we live in today is plagued with various forms of violence. From domestic violence to street fights to wars between nations, violence seems to be the norm rather than the exception. As Christians, we are not immune to violence and may be victims or perpetrators of violence at different points in our lives. But how do we deal with violence as Christians? Fortunately, the Bible has much to say about this topic, and in this blog post, we will look at 10 Bible verses about dealing with violence.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" - Matthew 5:9: This verse reminds us that as children of God, we are called to be peacemakers, not troublemakers. We should strive to make peace with others rather than engaging in violent conflicts.
"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.'" - Romans 12:19: When we are wronged, our natural instinct may be to seek revenge. However, this verse reminds us to leave justice to God and not take matters into our own hands.
"If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." - Romans 12:18: As much as it depends on us, we should strive to live in peace with everyone. Even when others are violent towards us, we should respond with love and seek to reconcile with them.
"Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing." - 1 Peter 3:9: Instead of retaliation, we should bless those who are violent towards us. This is not easy, but it is what we are called to do as Christians.
"But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also." - Matthew 5:39: This verse is often misunderstood, but it does not mean that we should be passive in the face of violence. Rather, it means that we should not seek revenge and should respond to violence with grace and love.
"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also." - Matthew 5:38-39: This verse echoes the previous one and reminds us that retaliation is not the way to deal with violence. Instead, we should respond with grace and forgiveness.
"Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." - 2 Corinthians 13:11: This verse encourages us to aim for the restoration of broken relationships, comfort one another, agree with one another, and live in peace. When we do this, God's love and peace will be with us.
"A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." - Proverbs 15:1: Our words have power, and this verse reminds us that a gentle response can de-escalate a violent situation. We should choose our words carefully and seek to diffuse tense situations.
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." - 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: This famous passage about love reminds us that love is the antidote to violence. When we love others as Christ loves us, we are less likely to engage in violent behaviour.
"Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamour and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." - Ephesians 4:31-32: This final verse reminds us to put away bitterness, anger, and malice and replace them with kindness, tender-heartedness, and forgiveness. When we forgive others as God has forgiven us, we break the cycle of violence and create a culture of peace.
Dealing with violence is not easy, but as Christians, we have a roadmap in the Bible. The 10 Bible verses we have looked at remind us to be peacemakers, not troublemakers, to respond to violence with grace and love, to choose our words carefully, and to put away bitterness and malice. When we follow these teachings, we can help create a more peaceful world, one that reflects the love of Christ.
Reflection Questions
What is your opinion on the use of violence as a means to an end?
Do you think that violence is ever justified in the name of religion?
How do you reconcile Biblical teachings with violent acts committed by Christians?
Is there ever a time when non-violence is not an option?
In what cases have you seen forgiveness or redemption after a violent act has been committed?
Thanks for joining us today! Don't forget to leave your favourite verses in the comments about this topic.
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