What does the New Testament teach about violence?

Matthew 26:49-54So Judas came straight to Jesus. “Greetings, Rabbi!” he exclaimed and gave him the kiss. . . . Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. But one of the men with Jesus pulled out his sword and struck the high priest’s slave, slashing off his ear. “Put away your sword,” Jesus told him. “Those who use the sword will die by the sword.”

James 1:20Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

A life of violence brings its own destruction and does not make progress in a God-honoring direction. The use of violence is a step back.

Matthew 5:38-39“You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. “If you are slapped on the right cheek, turn the other, too.”

According to Jesus, violence as an immediate personal response to injury or offense is to be replaced by a willingness to love even your enemies. Retaliation and revenge only encourage cycles of violence.

Romans 12:14-21Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Instead of plotting revenge, you are to be proactive in creating peace.

1 Timothy 3:1-5This is a trustworthy saying: “If someone aspires to be an elder, he desires an honorable position.” So an elder must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach. He must not be a heavy drinker or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?

An important trait for godly leaders at home, in the church, and in public is showing a resistance to choosing violent solutions.