Nonresistance is the principle of not retaliating against evil, injustice, or violence. It is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, especially in the words of Jesus Christ. The concept challenges believers to respond to hostility with love, patience, and trust in God rather than engaging in conflict or revenge.
This topic explores what the Bible says about nonresistance, its significance in Christian life, and how believers can apply it in modern times.
1. Nonresistance in the Teachings of Jesus
1.1 The Sermon on the Mount
One of the clearest biblical teachings on nonresistance comes from Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.
Matthew 5:38-39 states:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
This command challenges the natural instinct for revenge. Instead of retaliating, Jesus instructs His followers to respond with humility and peace.
1.2 Love Your Enemies
Jesus expands on nonresistance by teaching love for enemies.
Matthew 5:44 says:
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Loving enemies and refusing to retaliate demonstrates true Christian character. It reflects God’s grace and sets believers apart from worldly attitudes of revenge and hostility.
2. Biblical Examples of Nonresistance
2.1 Jesus’ Own Example
Jesus practiced what He preached by refusing to resist His arrest, trial, and crucifixion.
1 Peter 2:23 states:
“When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.”
Jesus’ submission to suffering showed complete trust in God’s justice rather than human strength.
2.2 The Apostles and Early Christians
The apostles followed Jesus’ example by enduring persecution without fighting back.
Acts 5:40-41 describes how the apostles were beaten for preaching the gospel:
“They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.”
Rather than resisting or seeking revenge, they rejoiced in suffering for Christ.
3. The Biblical Basis for Nonresistance
3.1 Overcoming Evil with Good
Romans 12:17-21 emphasizes nonresistance by teaching:
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil… Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
This passage urges believers to trust God’s justice rather than seeking their own.
3.2 Vengeance Belongs to God
Deuteronomy 32:35 states:
“It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
Rather than taking matters into their own hands, Christians are called to trust in God’s perfect judgment.
4. Practical Applications of Nonresistance
4.1 Responding to Personal Attacks
When faced with insults or mistreatment, believers should follow Jesus’ example.
Luke 6:29 says:
“If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also.”
This does not mean allowing abuse but rather choosing forgiveness over retaliation.
4.2 Dealing with Injustice
Christians are called to respond to injustice with patience and faith.
1 Peter 3:9 teaches:
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
This mindset helps believers reflect God’s character in a world filled with conflict.
5. Common Misconceptions About Nonresistance
5.1 Does Nonresistance Mean Weakness?
Some assume that nonresistance is a sign of weakness, but it actually requires great strength. Choosing peace over retaliation takes self-control and deep faith in God.
5.2 Does Nonresistance Mean Doing Nothing?
Nonresistance does not mean passively accepting evil. Instead, it means responding with wisdom, love, and trust in God rather than violence or revenge.
Jesus actively confronted injustice, but He did so with truth and love, not force.
6. Nonresistance in Today’s World
6.1 How Can Christians Practice Nonresistance Today?
- Forgive Others – Holding grudges leads to bitterness, but forgiveness reflects Christ’s love.
- Avoid Retaliation – When wronged, choose patience and peace over revenge.
- Pray for Enemies – Praying for those who hurt us changes our perspective and aligns us with God’s will.
6.2 Nonresistance in Social and Political Contexts
Some Christian communities, such as the Anabaptists, have historically practiced nonresistance in all areas of life, including refusing military service. While interpretations vary, the principle remains the same: trusting in God rather than human force.
The Bible teaches that nonresistance is a powerful expression of faith and love. Jesus, the apostles, and early Christians all demonstrated this principle, showing that true strength lies in trusting God rather than seeking revenge.
By choosing nonresistance, believers reflect God’s grace, promote peace, and trust in His ultimate justice.