Do not repay evil for evil

Posted on March 5, 2025, 8:42 a.m. by Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre

Repay no one evil for evil, says the Bible. “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.” (Rom.12:17a) If the Bible passage is making you wondering, then listen to this. “Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles” (Prov.24:17) They sound difficult to comprehend, isn’t it? But I am glad to tell you that it is not as difficult as you think it is. It is the attitude expected of the followers of Christ. Jesus said similar words, He says, “But I say to you love your enemies, bless those who curse you...” (Matt.5:44) Jesus put this into practice when He was on the Cross. (Luke.23:34) He prayed for those that concocted His death despite His innocence. It simply means that we His followers should not seek revenge ourselves but let God handle the justice and the punishment. We are expected to always display good character in the sight of all men. There is no doubt, that the pains associated with the offense of the enemy most of the time appears unbearable to the extent that it makes one angry and sad to the point of one wanting to retaliate. But the word of God is telling us not to do so. The Bible says it is profitable not to repay evil for evil, that you may inherit a blessing of God. (1 Peter.3:9) Knowing that one will be compensated with blessing should motivate one to leave vengeance to God instead of taking vengeance by oneself. It is also an opportunity to let the name of God be glorified knowing that He is the judge and He will repay everyone accordingly. God’s judgement is certain and absolute. (Heb.10:30-31) The seriousness of the warning against paying evil for evil is demonstrated by the proclamation that came to Prophet Ezekiel about the evil acts of the Ammonites and the Edomites against the house of Judah. (Ezekiel.25:1-7, 12-13) Because the ammonites rejoiced over the misfortune of Judah when it was attacked by Nebuchadnezzar, God said He will cut them off from the people and will cause them to perish from the countries. (Ezekiel.25:6-7) In the same manner, God said He will lay His vengeance on Edom according to His furry for taking vengeance against the house of Judah. (Ezekiel.25:12-15) Brethren, vengeance is of God, He will repay. So, let us avoid taking vengeance on our own when we are wronged. God has assured that vengeance is His. In the same manner, we should be conscious that when we rejoice over the calamity of our enemies, God will not only be displeased with us, He will turn away His wrath from the enemy. (Prov.24:18) Let us be reminded to extend our obedience to the warning as we design our prayer points. It is the practice of some of us that our prayer points are always targeted at the destruction of perceived or real enemies. Such is not different from taking vengeance or rejoicing over one’s enemy. Taking vengeance is evil. Whoever does evil for whatever reason is overcome by evil. The Bible says, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good”. (Rom.12:21) Obedience to the word of God is a sure way to ensuring continuous relationship with God and to receiving His blessings. Therefore, do not repay evil for evil. Evangelism With Jesus Christ in your life, you are safe. Give your life to Him today, He loves you. Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre