There is no place for getting back at someone or “teaching someone a lesson” in a petty or mean-spirited way when it comes to the body of Christ. That’s the message that the apostle Peter conveys in the third chapter of his first epistle:
Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
I Peter 3:8-12, KJV
In this passage, Peter calls for unity among believers — not necessarily uniformity in thought (which is all but impossible in this fallen world), but rather unity in spirit, purpose, and love. He also urges that we be driven by “compassion” and empathy, that we manifest a familial love in God’s family, and be “pitiful” and “courteous” with one another.
Today, in modern English, we see the word “pitiful” as, well, pitiful. We see it as a humiliating thing. However, the term translated as “pitiful” in the classic KJV is derived from the Greek word “εὔσπλαγχνος” (eusplagchnos). Think of this word in two parts:
- “εὖ” (eu) which means “good” or “well.”
- “σπλάγχνον” (splagchnon) which refers to the “inward parts,” often used in the New Testament to denote the seat of emotions, especially compassion.
So, “εὔσπλαγχνος” (eusplagchnos) essentially means “having strong feelings or compassion” and can be translated as “compassionate,” “tenderhearted,” or “of a compassionate nature.” Indeed, the New King James renders it as “tenderhearted.”
Peter continues by urging Christians not to retaliate or respond in kind when they face insults, slights, or mistreatment. Instead, he says we should bless those who oppose us. This would be for those both inside and outside the church.
Note this echoes Jesus’ teaching to love our enemies and Paul’s teaching in Romans to “repay no one evil for evil” and not to “avenge” ourselves, but to “overcome evil with good.” (see Romans 12).
Peter emphasizes this behavior isn’t a nice add-on. Rather, it’s a divine calling reflecting who we are in Christ. And…
He says that, if we want to receive blessings from God, the behavior he is exhorting us to follow is mandatory!
So, how about it? Do you want to be blessed by God?
I know I do.
And if you do as well, then…
Lay aside all pettiness. Drop the drama. Get rid of negative attitudes and toxicity. Treat one another with kindness and compassion. Have empathy. Don’t try to “get back” at people — not in big ways or small ways. No revenge. No “I’ll show him” or “I’ll teach her” type anger or bitterness. None of that.
Don’t let your mind be consumed with or driven by anger, rage, jealousy, envy, drama, or the need to strike back at those who hurt you or let you down.
Instead… Love and bless one another, even those who upset or offend you — or come against you.
Those are the things God-honoring, God-pleasing Christians do.
