Why does Christianity discourage revenge?

In Christianity, the concept of revenge is viewed through a lens that is distinctly different from the world's often vindictive and retaliatory standards. The teachings of Jesus Christ and the broader scriptural narratives provide a compelling framework that discourages revenge, promoting instead a philosophy of forgiveness, reconciliation, and love. This perspective is not just a moral stance but is deeply rooted in the theological and spiritual foundations of the faith.

The Teachings of Jesus

Central to understanding why Christianity discourages revenge is the direct teaching of Jesus Christ. In the Sermon on the Mount, one of the most comprehensive presentations of Christian ethics, Jesus explicitly addresses the issue of retaliation. In Matthew 5:38-39, He states, "You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' 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." This revolutionary teaching overturned the old testament law of Lex Talionis, which prescribed equal retaliation for injuries. Jesus' instruction to "turn the other cheek" suggests a radical departure from the natural human inclination towards revenge.

The Principle of Love

A deeper layer in the Christian aversion to revenge is the principle of love, which is foundational to Christian doctrine. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus summarizes the law and the prophets with two commandments centered on love: to love God with all one's heart and to love one's neighbor as oneself. When considering revenge, this commandment calls Christians to seek the well-being and good of others, including those who have wronged them. In Romans 12:19-21, the Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment, admonishing believers not to take revenge but to leave room for God's wrath. Instead, he instructs, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink." Here, Paul is advocating for a response to wrongdoing that seeks to overcome evil with good, rather than perpetuating cycles of harm.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Another vital aspect of the Christian response to revenge is the emphasis on forgiveness and reconciliation. The Lord's Prayer, a model prayer given by Jesus, petitions, "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12). This prayer links God's forgiveness of sins to the believer's forgiveness of others, suggesting a divine mandate to release others from the debts of wrongdoing. Moreover, in the parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:21-35), Jesus teaches that forgiveness should be extended repeatedly and generously, reflecting the limitless forgiveness God offers to humanity. This narrative directly confronts the human desire for revenge by proposing a radically different approach of ongoing forgiveness.

The Example of Jesus

The life and death of Jesus Christ himself provide the most profound example of the rejection of revenge. During His crucifixion, a moment of intense personal injustice and suffering, Jesus prayed for His persecutors, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). This response to direct aggression with forgiveness and concern for the spiritual state of His aggressors stands as a powerful testament to the Christian call to forsake revenge.

Theological and Spiritual Implications

Theologically, the Christian stance against revenge can be seen as part of the broader spiritual journey towards sanctification and holiness. Engaging in revenge can corrupt one's spirit, leading away from the likeness of Christ towards bitterness and anger. In contrast, responding to wrongdoing with forgiveness and love can be a transformative experience, not only for the one forgiving but also potentially for the wrongdoer.

Practical Outcomes

Practically, the rejection of revenge can lead to peace and reconciliation, reducing violence and conflict in communities. It opens the possibility for restoration and healing rather than escalation of conflict. This is not only beneficial for individual relationships but can also influence broader societal peace.

Conclusion

In summary, Christianity discourages revenge, advocating instead for responses that reflect the character and teachings of Jesus Christ. Through the principles of love, forgiveness, and the pursuit of peace, Christians are called to respond to wrongdoing in a manner that transcends human inclinations towards retaliation. This approach is not only about moral obedience but is also about embodying a transformative way of living that reflects the profound realities of the Christian faith.