Dictionary of Bible Themes Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8700 Threats to the life of faith » 8828 spite The malicious desire to retaliate in words or action. It may be in response to good or evil. Believers are to rid themselves of any such vindictive spirit. Examples of people acting out of spite In response to good 1 Kings 19:1-2 Jezebel; 2 Chronicles 16:10 Asa, king of Judah; Esther 3:6 Haman; Matthew 14:3-12 pp Mark 6:17-29 Herodias; John 12:10 the chief priests Stephen's persecutors: Acts 7:54,57-58 In response to evil Psalm 140:3 See also Genesis 27:41 Esau Joseph's brothers: Genesis 37:4,8,11,18-27 Ezekiel 25:15 the Philistines; Acts 23:12-15 some Jews Spite has no place in the lives of believers Believers are to rid themselves of all spitefulness Ephesians 4:31 See also 1 Corinthians 5:8; Colossians 3:8; 1 Peter 2:1 As a result believers are enabled not to retaliate against others Leviticus 19:18 See also Proverbs 20:22; Proverbs 24:29; Matthew 5:38-40; Romans 12:17,19-21; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Peter 2:21-23; Peter 3:9 See also
5495 revenge & retaliation |
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