In contrast to the Nephites, who thought it was their privilege to mete out punishment on the Lamanites, the Lord reminded Mormon that punishment is His responsibility. As Paul taught, it is not our job to worry about how the wicked are punished but to figure out how to live peaceably with them, If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves…for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay (Rom 12:18-19).
Joseph F. Smith
“…men are not called upon to curse mankind; that is not our mission; it is our mission to preach righteousness to them. It is our business to love and to bless them, and to redeem them from the fall and from the wickedness of the world. This is our mission and our special calling. God will curse and will exercise his judgment in those matters. ’Vengeance is mine,’ saith the Lord, ’and I will repay.’ We are perfectly willing to leave vengeance in the hands of God and let him judge between us and our enemies, and let him reward them according to his own wisdom and mercy.” (Conference Report, Oct. 1904, p. 5)
Joseph Smith
“Brethren, bear and forbear one with another, for so the Lord does with us. Pray for your enemies in the Church and curse not your foes without: for vengeance is mine, saith the Lord, and I will repay. To every ordained member, and to all, we say, be merciful and you shall find mercy. Seek to help save souls, not to destroy them.” (Teachings, p. 77)