Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Romans 12:19
19-21. avenge not, &c.—(See on Romans 12:1). but rather give place unto wrath—This is usually taken to mean, "but give room or space for wrath to spend itself." But as the context shows that the injunction is to leave vengeance to God, "wrath" here seems to mean, not the offense, which we are tempted to avenge, but the avenging wrath of God (see Romans 12:1- :), which we are enjoined to await, or give room for. (So the best interpreters). read more
Thomas Coke Commentary on the Holy Bible - Romans 12:20
Romans 12:20. Thou shalt heap, &c,— The sense cannot be, thou shalt consume him and bring judgments upon him; for that would be applying to revenge, and building upon it, while it is most expressly forbidden. It must therefore intimate, in how tender a manner mankind in general are affected with favours received from one who has been considered as an enemy. See Doddridge. Inferences.—How should a consideration of the endearing mercies of God engage us to yield up ourselves as a living... read more