01/09/2026
A word to Christians:
We cannot deliberately provoke people, mistreat them, create conflict, or do them wrong, and then, when they choose to defend themselves through lawful means, suddenly say, “I’m sorry. Let’s make peace. Please forgive me. Don’t take legal action against me.”
The Bible calls us to “follow after the things which make for peace” (Romans 14:19) and, as far as it depends on us, to “live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18). We are also commanded not to repay evil for evil or take personal vengeance (Romans 12:17, 19).
But biblical forgiveness does not mean pretending that wrongdoing never happened, nor does it mean demanding that someone surrender their lawful right to seek justice. Scripture recognizes legitimate civil authority as having a role in dealing with wrongdoing (Romans 13:1–4).
True repentance means acknowledging the wrong and taking responsibility for it. John the Baptist taught that repentance should produce “fruits worthy of repentance” (Luke 3:8).
So don't provoke trouble and only ask for peace when the consequences arrive. Pursue peace before the conflict begins. Do what is right before you wrong someone. And if you do wrong, repent sincerely and accept responsibility for the consequences.
“Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” — Galatians 6:7
Forgiveness is Christian. Peace is Christian. Repentance is Christian. But using Christianity as a shield from the consequences of your own wrongdoing is not.