Cruelty and Brutality: Understanding Violence, Its Consequences, and Biblical Perspectives

The expression 'if you live by the sword you will die by the sword' highlights the profound truth that violence creates violence—a principle that resonates throughout biblical teaching and human experience.

The Biblical Principle of Sowing and Reaping

The expression, 'if you live by the sword you will die by the sword' is adapted from a statement made by Jesus indicating violence done to others will often result in violence being done to the perpetrator (Mt 26:52). It highlights the sowing and reaping principle that, if not fully outworked in this life, will be in the next (Mt 16:27; Gal 6:7-10). During the great tribulation of the end times, the anti-Christ (also called the beast) will inflict intense suffering on humanity and will reap the consequences (Rev 13:15-17, 20:10).

The Nature of Cruelty and Its Contrast with God's Character

Wicked people act with callousness, mercilessly attacking the innocent and not even adequately caring for their animals (Ps 64:2-3; Prov 12:10). One outward expression of anger is cruelty, inflicting pain in some form against others (Prov 27:4).

A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings himself harm – Proverbs 11:17

In contrast, as children of a loving God, we are to exhibit His nature, showing kindness to all (including animals), doing to others as we would like done to us (Lk 6:31; Gal 5:22-23; Col 3:12).

Responding to Cruelty with Grace

The Bible's advice is to bless and pray for those who treat you badly. By responding in the opposite way to that expected we can often break the destructive cycle of revenge (Mt 5:44; Rom 12:14). The golden rule that Jesus promoted was, "Do to others as you would have them do to you" (Lk 6:31).

In heaven there will be numerous folk who suffered terribly on earth, even being martyred because of their faith in Christ, but they will be exalted in heaven (Heb 11:35-38; Rev 7:15-17, 12:11, 21:4).

While humanity inflicts untold suffering and injustices against other human beings, the greatest cruelty was that imposed by sinful man crucifying Jesus who was sinless and, in the greatest act of love ever, bearing the suffering that rightfully belonged to us so we need not suffer if we turn to Him.

Reflection and Application:

Consider how the principle of sowing and reaping applies to your own actions and attitudes toward others.
Examine areas where you might be responding to mistreatment with similar behaviour rather than with grace.
Reflect on how showing kindness, even to those who mistreat you, can break cycles of violence and revenge.
Remember that ultimate justice belongs to God, and suffering in this life is temporary compared to eternal glory.