- Christ who loved even enemies (Lev 19:18)
Mt 5:43-44, Lk 6:27-28, Lk 23:34,, Ezk 18:23, 32, 1 Tim 2:4, 2 Pt 3:9
The Old Testament tells us not to take revenge. (Lev 19:18)
Lev 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.
Jesus said to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. (Matthew 5:43-44, Luke 6:27-28)
Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Luke 6:27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
28 Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.
Jesus forgave those who crucified Him. (Luke 23:34)
Luke 23:34 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
God wants even the wicked to be saved. (Ezekiel 18:23,32, 1 Tim 2:4, 2 Pet 3:9)
Ezekiel 18:23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord God: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?
32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.
1 Tim 2:4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
2 Pet 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.