Matthew Henry Commentary Romans 12:17-21

"Render to no man evil for evil. Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men. Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath [of God]: for it is written, Vengeance belongeth unto me; I will recompense, saith the Lord. But if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him to drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." — Romans 12:17-21 (ASV)

Since people became enemies to God, they have been very ready to be enemies to one another. And those who embrace religion must expect to meet with enemies in a world whose smiles seldom agree with Christ's. Recompense to no man evil for evil. That is a brutish recompense, befitting only animals, which are not conscious of any being above them or of any existence hereafter.

And not only do so, but study and take care to do what is amiable and creditable, and recommends religion to all with whom you converse. Study the things that make for peace, if it is possible, without offending God and wounding your conscience. Avenge not yourselves. This is a hard lesson for corrupt nature; therefore, a remedy against it is added.

Give place unto wrath. When a person's passion is up, and the current is strong, let it pass by; lest it be made to rage all the more against us. The line of our duty is clearly marked out. If our enemies are not melted by persevering kindness, we are not to seek vengeance; they will be consumed by the fiery wrath of that God to whom vengeance belongs. The last verse suggests what is not easily understood by the world: that in all strife and contention, those who take revenge are conquered, and those who forgive are conquerors.

Be not overcome of evil. Learn to defeat evil designs against you, either to change them or to preserve your own peace. He who has this rule over his spirit is better than the mighty. God's children may be asked whether it is not sweeter to them than all earthly good that God so enables them by His Spirit, thus to feel and act.