How does Ecclesiastes 7:15 challenge our understanding of justice and righteousness? The Paradox Observed “In my futile life, I have seen everything: there is a righteous man who perishes in his righteousness, and a wicked man who lives long in his wickedness.” (Ecclesiastes 7:15) Why This Verse Jolts Our Sense of Justice • We instinctively expect moral order: righteous living should lead to blessing, wickedness to trouble (cf. Deuteronomy 28:1-6, 15-19). • Solomon records the opposite: premature death for the godly, long life for the ungodly. • The verse confronts any formulaic view that virtue automatically guarantees present-life prosperity. What It Reveals About Justice • God’s justice is never absent, but often delayed (2 Peter 3:9). • Temporal circumstances do not provide the final verdict; ultimate justice awaits God’s appointed day (Ecclesiastes 12:14; Hebrews 9:27). • Apparent inequities test faith, exposing whether we trust the Judge or the scoreboard. What It Reveals About Righteousness • Righteousness is obedience to God, not a bargaining chip for earthly benefits (Job 1:9-11 shows the error of “serve God for pay”). • True righteousness persists even when it seems unprofitable (Habakkuk 3:17-18). • A shortened earthly life does not diminish eternal reward (Revelation 14:13). Supporting Voices in Scripture • Psalm 73:3-5, 17-19 — Asaph wrestles with the same tension, resolves it in the sanctuary when he considers eternity. • Job 21:7-13 — Job observes the carefree wicked, yet holds to God’s righteousness (Job 19:25-27). • Matthew 5:45 — Jesus notes that the Father “causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good,” teaching that common grace coexists with ultimate reckoning. • Galatians 6:7-9 — “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked… in due season we will reap.” Timing, not truth, is the issue. Implications for Believers Today • Expect paradox: present experience may contradict our sense of “fair play.” • Avoid simplistic theology: righteousness is not a guarantee of health, wealth, or longevity. • Persevere in doing good even when outcomes disappoint (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Anchor hope in God’s final assessment, not present appearances (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). • Cultivate compassion: apparent prosperity of the wicked masks impending judgment, inviting intercession and evangelism (Romans 9:1-3). Living with Confidence Amid the Mystery • God remains sovereign; no injustice slips past His gaze (Proverbs 15:3). • Christ’s resurrection guarantees that present injustices will be reversed (Acts 17:31). • The new creation will display perfect justice and righteousness forever (Revelation 21:3-4). |
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