Biblical Understanding of Justice
The Bible talks in depth about justice and its importance. Justice can be interpreted in a variety of ways, but in the Bible, it is referred to as being in line with God’s will, which includes mercy, fairness, and righteousness. In the Bible, God establishes laws to protect the innocent and punish wrongdoers. Therefore, justice is seen as a representation of God’s righteous character and acts of obedience to his will.
In the Old Testament, justice is largely portrayed in terms of God’s judgments. In Leviticus 19, God tells the people to “love their neighbor as themselves” and to “do justice” to those who are poor and disadvantaged. Furthermore, Exodus 23:6-7 establishes that justice is to be administered equally. In addition, Deuteronomy 16:18-20 states that justice should be impartial and judges should not show partiality towards either the poor or the rich.
The New Testament also speaks often of justice. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells people to forgive those who wrong them and to seek justice in all matters. In Matthew 5:7, Jesus tells his disciples, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy”. This passage illustrates the importance of being merciful and forgiving in order to receive mercy from God. Furthermore, in the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus exemplifies what it means to be just and merciful.
The prophets in the Bible were also clear advocates of justice, warning people that justice would be a sign of judgment for those who sinned against God and against people made in his image. Micah 6:8 is one of the most famous statements about justice in the Bible, saying, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”. This verse emphasizes that justice is a way of showing reverence and obedience to God, while at the same time expressing kindness and mercy to our neighbors.
Justice and Mercy
The Bible speaks of justice and mercy as complementary and intertwined ideas. This is evident in James 2:13, where it says, “Mercy triumphs over judgement”. This passage shows that God desires mercy to be preferred above punishment alone and to be dispensed with justice and righteousness. Furthermore, in Proverbs 31:8-9, it states, “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy”. This passage emphasizes the importance of defending the rights of the oppressed, which is done through justice that is tempered with mercy and compassion.
Justice of our Redemption
When it comes to justice and mercy, the Bible does not shy away from discussing the importance of justice in our redemption. Romans 3:24-26 talks of the righteousness of God, stating, “But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.” This passage shows that through faith in Jesus, we can obtain the justice of God and receive the redemption of our sins. Furthermore, in Philippians 2:8-11, it talks of Jesus as the ultimate example of justice, humility, and obedience to God’s will. This passage shows that through Jesus we can obtain justice from God and experience the peace, joy, and salvation that comes from being in a right relationship with Him.
Justice and Repentance
The Bible also speaks about justice in terms of repentance. When we fail to love and respect God, the justice of God is invoked and we are called to turn away from our sin and turn to God for mercy. In 2 Corinthians 7:10, it states, “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death”. This passage show that it is through repentance that we can obtain the justice of God and receive His mercy and forgiveness.
Justice and Holiness
Finally, the Bible shows that justice is linked to holiness and righteousness. In 1 Peter 1:15-16, it states, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, be ye holy; for I am holy”. This passage shows that we must pattern our lives after the holiness of God and seek to live lives of justice and righteousness. In addition, Isaiah 5:16 states, “But the Lord of hosts shall be exalted in judgment, and God that is holy shall be sanctified in righteousness”. This passage speaks of the importance of God’s justice, emphasizing that it is rooted in holiness and that God will be exalted in judgement.
God’s Sovereignty and Justice
The Bible speaks of God’s sovereignty in terms of justice. In Job 37:22-23, it states, “Fair weather comes out of the north; with God is awesome majesty. The Almighty—we cannot find him; he is great in power and justice, and abundant righteousness he will not oppress”. This passage speaks of the power and authority of God, emphasizing that He is just and righteous and that He always acts with justice. Furthermore, in Psalm 33:4-5, it states, “For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord”. This passage shows that the Lord is the ultimate source of justice, emphasizing the importance of living a life of righteousness and justice.
Human Responsibility and Justice
The Bible also speaks of human responsibility when it comes to justice. In Amos 5:24, it states, “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream”. This passage speaks of the importance of pursuing justice, impressing on us the necessity of taking action to ensure righteousness and justice in our world. In addition, Deuteronomy 16:20 states, “Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue, that you may live and inherit the land that the Lord your God is giving you”. This passage emphasizes the importance of doing justice, reminding us that we are called to seek justice in our lives.
Justice and the Eternal Kingdom
The Bible shows that justice is not only important in our current lives, but it is also important for our eternal destiny. In Isaiah 51:6, it states, “Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look at the earth beneath; for the heavens vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment, and they who dwell in it will die in like manner; but my salvation will be forever, and my righteousness will never be dismayed”. This passage speaks of the eternal nature of justice, showing that righteousness and justice will have an eternal impact on our lives and our fate.
Justice in the End Times
The Bible speaks of justice in the end times and how it will be meted out at the judgement seat of God. In Romans 14:10-12, it states, “But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgement seat of Christ. For it is written: ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God” This passage speaks of how God will judge us according to justice and righteousness and that our actions will have consequences in the afterlife.
Justice and Rewards
Finally, the Bible speaks of rewards for those who are righteous and just. In 2 Timothy 4:8, it states, “Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing”. This passage shows that those who seek justice and live righteously will receive rewards in the afterlife. Furthermore, in Revelation 22:12, it states, “Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be”. This passage emphasizes the importance of using our lives to seek justice and righteousness, reminding us that we will be rewarded for our efforts.
