Topical Encyclopedia The concept of repaying evil for good is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the moral and spiritual challenges faced by individuals who encounter such injustice. This theme is addressed in various scriptures, emphasizing the wickedness of such actions and the divine perspective on them.Genesis 44:4-5 In the account of Joseph and his brothers, Joseph's steward confronts the brothers after they have left Egypt, accusing them of repaying good with evil by stealing Joseph's silver cup. This incident illustrates the gravity of repaying kindness with treachery, as Joseph had previously shown them hospitality and provision. Psalm 35:12 "They repay me evil for good, to the bereavement of my soul." This lament of David reflects the deep personal anguish and betrayal felt when kindness is met with malice. David's experience serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional toll such actions can take on the righteous. Proverbs 17:13 "If anyone returns evil for good, evil will never leave his house." This proverb underscores the principle of divine justice, warning that those who repay good with evil invite ongoing trouble and misfortune upon themselves and their households. Jeremiah 18:20 "Should good be repaid with evil? Yet they have dug a pit for me. Remember how I stood before You to speak good on their behalf, to turn Your wrath from them." The prophet Jeremiah pleads with God, highlighting the injustice of his situation where his intercession for the people is met with plots against his life. John 10:32 Jesus answered them, "I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these do you stone Me?" Here, Jesus confronts the religious leaders who seek to harm Him despite His benevolent acts, illustrating the ultimate example of evil being repaid for divine goodness. Romans 12:17-21 "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.' On the contrary, 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." The Apostle Paul exhorts believers to resist the natural inclination to retaliate, instead encouraging them to respond to evil with acts of kindness, trusting in God's ultimate justice. 1 Peter 3:9 "Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." Peter echoes the teaching of Jesus, urging Christians to respond to wrongdoing with blessings, aligning themselves with their calling and securing divine favor. These scriptures collectively highlight the moral imperative to resist repaying evil for good, emphasizing the importance of maintaining righteousness and trusting in God's justice. They serve as a guide for believers to navigate the challenges of encountering evil with a spirit of grace and forgiveness. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 7:4,5If I have rewarded evil to him that was at peace with me; (yes, I have delivered him that without cause is my enemy:) Nave's Topical Index Psalm 35:12 Psalm 109:5 Proverbs 17:13 Library Concerning "Good," "Light," "Beautiful," "Desire," "Ecstasy ... On Angels in General and in Particular Concerning the Scriptures. Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... Concerning Perseverance, and the Possibility of Falling from Grace ... Concerning the Condition of Man in the Fall. The Manich??ans Inquire Whence is Evil and by this Question Think ... Contents of Clement's Despatches to James. On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. Resources What does the Bible say about good versus evil? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the definition of evil? | GotQuestions.org Why does God allow evil? | GotQuestions.org Evil: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Evil for Good: David, to Uriah Evil for Good: General Scriptures Concerning Evil for Good: Israelites, to Moses Evil for Good: Joseph Accuses his Brothers of Rendering Evil for Good: Nabal Returns, to David Evil for Good: Saul Returns, to David Evil: Appearance of, to be Avoided Evil: Paul, in Refusing to Eat What had been offered to Idols Related Terms Evil-speakings (3 Occurrences) |
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