Romans 12:19

“Dearly beloved, etc..] This affectionate appellation the apostle makes use of, expressing his great love to them, the rather to work upon then, and move them to an attention to what he is about to say; which they might assure themselves was in great tenderness to them, for their good, as well as the glory of God: moreover, he may hereby suggest to them, not only that they were dear to him, but that they were greatly beloved of God, that they were high in his favour and affection; and this he might him unto them, in order to melt them into love to their fellow Christians and fellow creatures, and even to their enemies, and never think of private revenge: avenge not yourselves; this is no ways…”

“avenge not, &c.--(See on Rom 12:14). 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 Ch2 24:18), which we are enjoined to await, or give room for. (So the best interpreters).”

“Dearly beloved - This expression of tenderness was especially appropriate in an exhortation to peace. It reminded them of the affection and friendship which ought to subsist among them as brethren. Avenge not yourselves - To “avenge” is to take satisfaction for an injury by inflicting punishment on the offender. To take such satisfaction for injuries done to society, is lawful and proper for a magistrate; Romans 13:4. And to take satisfaction for injuries done by sin to the universe, is the province of God. But the apostle here is addressing private individual Christians. And the command is, to avoid a spirit and purpose of revenge. But this command is not to be so understood that we may not…”

“Dearly beloved - So he softens the rugged spirit. Revenge not yourselves, but leave that to God. Perhaps it might more properly be rendered, leave room for wrath; that is, the wrath of God, to whom vengeance properly belongs. Deu 32:35 Romans 12:20”

“avenge: Rom 12:14, Rom 12:17; Lev 19:18; Sa1 25:26, Sa1 25:33; Pro 24:17-19, Pro 24:29; Eze 25:12 give: Mat 5:39; Luk 6:27-29, Luk 9:55, Luk 9:56 Vengeance: Rom 13:4; Deu 32:35, Deu 32:43; Psa 94:1-3; Nah 1:2, Nah 1:3; Heb 10:30 Romans 12:20”