From Vengeance to Love: Seeing God Through Jesus

“From Vengeance to Love: Seeing God Through Jesus”

When we read the Old Testament, we sometimes encounter passages that can be jarring. The battles in Joshua, for example, describe complete destruction of cities, and God’s commands to Israel seem severe: “Now devote to destruction everything in the city… so that it will be a warning to you” (Joshua 6:17, NIV). Similarly, David’s psalms include words that express anger and desire for revenge: “May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership… May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow” (Psalm 109:8–9, NIV).

It is important to remember that these texts were written in particular historical and cultural contexts. The Old Testament writers sometimes portrayed God in a vengeful or punitive way because they were responding to human suffering, injustice, or the harsh realities of warfare. Their words can reflect human emotion and perception as much as divine instruction.

But then comes Jesus, whose life and teachings offer a transformative understanding of God. Jesus repeatedly emphasized that God is not a God of vengeance but of love, mercy, and compassion. He said:

• “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34, NIV).

• “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44, NIV).

• “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth. For God is love” (1 John 4:24–8, NIV).

Through Jesus, we see that God’s ultimate plan is not destruction or revenge but redemption and reconciliation. The violence and vengeance recorded in the Old Testament are reframed through Christ’s message of love. Where David’s psalms cry out for retribution, Jesus calls us to forgive. Where Joshua’s battles reflect human struggle and survival, Jesus invites us to peace-making: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9, NIV).

As followers of Christ, we are called to embody this love in our own lives. When confronted with anger, injustice, or hurt, we are invited to respond not in vengeance but in grace. God’s love, as revealed in Jesus, is a higher standard than fear or retaliation—it is transformative, patient, and unending.

Reflection:

• How might your perception of God change if you focus on His love rather than judgment?

• Are there situations in your life where you are tempted to respond in anger rather than forgiveness? How could you emulate Jesus’ teachings of love instead?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing the true heart of God—a heart of love, mercy, and grace. Help me to reflect Your love in all my relationships, even when I feel wronged or hurt. Teach me to forgive, to seek peace, and to trust in Your redeeming power above all else. Amen. 

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