Verse 39 Resist not evil; bear injuries meekly, without retaliation. Like the foregoing precepts, this rule is intended to be applied to the private intercourse of society. The whole tenor of the Scriptures shows that it is the right and the duty of civil governments to exercise coercion, when necessary to restrain or punish the wicked. Paul appealed to the Roman government when in danger, and accepted the protection of an armed escort. (Acts 23:16-33.)