Chapter Eleven
How Should I Respond to the Unrepentant? Two Principles
The Question
What should be done in the case of an unrepentant offender? How should we respond to those who take no responsibility for evil?
Principle #1: Resolve Not to Take Revenge
In Romans 12:17-21 Paul speaks directly to how Christians should respond to evil.
If you are honest, you can surely identify small ways you have been tempted to take revenge. We feel entitled to just a little payback when we are hurt. Small acts of revenge seem right. But each act of revenge is wrong; it is sin.
We must never take revenge. Not even in small ways. Revenge seems right, but the Bible clearly prohibits it.
Principle #2: Proactively Show Love
Again Romans 12:17-21. These verses elaborate on how love should be genuine.
Paul's point here is that love should show itself in our lives even when we are wronged. Christlike love actively seeks and offers peace: "Give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on [us], live peaceably with all"
We should use all our mental energy to love those who harm us and to live at peace with them: let your love be authentic; give thought to do what is honorable; so far as it depends on you, live at peace with all people.
Conclusion
- Principle #1: Resolve not to take revenge.
- Principle #2: Proactively show love.
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