'Recompense to no man evil for evil.
Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath:
for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink:
for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.'
(Rom 12:17)
Hello there,
Romans 12:17 was written at a time which had the potential to be 'the last days', the opportunity for Christ's imminent return was in place. Christians were suffering persecution, violence and imprisonment. So the practical instruction concerning their manner of life during that time, and the attitude of mind they were encouraged to have towards each other, and towards those who were essentially their enemies is instructive for us too.
Peter and John exhibited boldness in preaching the Word of God in Acts 4:1-13, and the believers who witnessed their 'boldness', prayed that they too may be emboldened to '... speak Thy word ...', and it was granted them. The Lord had told His disciples that they would suffer persecution and with what mind they were to meet it (Matthew 5:44):-
'But I say unto you, Love your enemies,
bless them that curse you,
do good to them that hate you,
and pray for them which despitefully use you,
and persecute you;
That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven:
for He maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good,
and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.'
... Later, Paul, in Romans 12:14 said:-
'Bless them which persecute you:
bless, and curse not.'
(Rom 12:14)
* The 'boldness' of the believers of the past was in regard to the word of God itself, on preaching it and living it, in anticipation of the return of Christ. For it is the gospel message which is '... the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth' .
Thank you
In Christ Jesus
Chris