The Bible consistently condemns violence and cruelty, emphasizing the sanctity of life and the call to love and peace. From the earliest narratives to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, Scripture presents a clear stance against acts of violence and cruelty, urging believers to pursue righteousness and compassion.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding God's view on violence. In Genesis 6:11-13, the earth is described as being "corrupt before God, and full of violence," leading to the divine decision to cleanse the world through the flood. This narrative underscores God's intolerance for a world dominated by violence.

The Mosaic Law further articulates this stance. Exodus 20:13 commands, "You shall not murder," establishing the sanctity of human life. The law also prescribes justice and fairness, as seen in Leviticus 19:18, which instructs, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against any of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself."

The prophets echo this condemnation. Isaiah 1:15-17 calls the people to "cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression." Similarly, Micah 6:8 emphasizes what the Lord requires: "to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God."

Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also speaks against violence and cruelty. Proverbs 3:31 advises, "Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways," highlighting the folly of aligning with violence. Proverbs 10:11 contrasts the righteous and the wicked, stating, "The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence."

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Christ exemplifying and teaching a life of peace and love. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus elevates the command against murder to a matter of the heart, warning against anger and hatred (Matthew 5:21-22). He further instructs in Matthew 5:44, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

The apostle Paul reinforces this teaching in Romans 12:17-21, urging believers, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil... If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." He emphasizes overcoming evil with good, rather than resorting to violence.

Apostolic Writings

The apostolic writings continue to advocate for peace and denounce violence. James 1:19-20 advises, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man's anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires." This underscores the importance of self-control and the rejection of violent impulses.

Peter also addresses this in 1 Peter 3:9, instructing believers not to repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this they were called.

Conclusion

Throughout the Bible, violence and cruelty are consistently condemned, with a call for believers to embody peace, justice, and love. The biblical narrative presents a God who values life and calls His people to reflect His character through acts of kindness and mercy, standing in stark contrast to the ways of violence and cruelty.