I. Introduction: Concerns for Our Christian Nation

The speaker began by expressing deep concern over two trends in our society that are contrary to Christian teachings and threaten our identity as a Christian nation. While these issues are visible in politics, they are not limited to any single party and reflect a broader societal shift away from Christian principles.

A. The Decline of Gracious Speech

There is a growing use of vulgar and coarse language, particularly among national leaders. This is a noticeable change from past generations when such language was not used in public discourse.

• Key Scripture: Colossians 4:5-6
  

  “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

• Main Point: Our words, whether spoken or written, should always be full of grace. Educated and thoughtful people should be able to express their ideas without resorting to insulting or vulgar language.

B. The Un-Christian Desire for Revenge

The idea that retaliation and “getting even” are acceptable or even Christian responses is becoming more common. This is a dangerous and destructive mindset that goes directly against biblical teaching.

• Main Point: The Bible clearly instructs Christians not to seek revenge, but to leave vengeance to God. We are called to overcome evil with good.

II. The Christian Call to Overcome Evil

The sermon focused on God’s command for His people to live differently from the world, especially in how we respond to conflict and evil.

• Key Scripture: Romans 12:16-21
  

  “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud… Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath; for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

• Main Point: Seeking to “get even” creates a vicious cycle of retaliation. The Christian response is to live at peace, refuse to take revenge, and actively do good to our enemies.

III. Sermon Illustrations

A. The Story of Esther: Vengeance and Providence

The book of Esther provides a powerful illustration of the destructive nature of hatred and the desire for revenge, as well as the quiet providence of God.

• Summary of the Story:
  • Haman, a high official in the Persian empire, developed a deep hatred for a Jew named Mordecai, who refused to bow down to him.
  • Driven by his wounded pride, Haman manipulated the king into signing a decree to have all Jews in the empire killed.
  • Mordecai’s niece, Queen Esther, risked her life to intervene. At a critical moment, Mordecai encouraged her, asking, “Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).
  • Through Esther’s courage and cunning, Haman’s plot was exposed. In a turn of divine justice, Haman was executed on the very gallows he had built for Mordecai.
• Key Insight: This story shows how a desire for revenge can lead to one’s own destruction. It also illustrates God’s providence, working through ordinary people and circumstances to save His people, even when He is not explicitly mentioned.

B. The Self-Reflection of a President

The speaker shared an illustration from the life of former President Richard Nixon to highlight the personal cost of hatred and retaliation.

• Summary of the Story:
  • President Nixon’s administration was known for its “enemies list,” which was a plan to use the power of the federal government to “destroy our political enemies” through audits, litigation, and other means.
  • However, in his final resignation speech to his staff, President Nixon offered a poignant reflection.
• Quotation from Nixon’s Speech:
  

  “Always remember others may hate you, but those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them, and then you destroy yourself.”

• Key Insight: This statement from a man who had experienced political power and conflict at the highest level shows a profound truth: harboring hatred and a desire for revenge ultimately destroys the person who holds it.

IV. Take Home Points & Action Items

1. Guard Your Speech: Be mindful of the words you use. Strive for conversations that are “full of grace, seasoned with salt,” reflecting the character of Christ.
2. Reject Revenge: Consciously reject the worldly impulse for retaliation. The cycle of “getting even” is destructive to individuals and to our society. It is not the Christian way.
3. Trust God’s Justice: Leave vengeance to God. He is the only one who can repay justly. Our role is to live at peace with everyone, as much as it is possible.
4. Overcome Evil with Good: Actively look for opportunities to show kindness and love, even to those who may be considered enemies. Follow the command to feed the hungry and give drink to the thirsty.
5. Embrace the Love of Christ: Rid your heart of all hatred. Embrace the love that Christ has shown to you and commit to showing that same love to others.