In what ways might we "deny justice" in modern society? Turning to the Text “Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against sorcerers, adulterers, perjurers, against oppressors of the hired worker’s wages, those who deny justice to the widow, the fatherless, and the foreigner, and those who do not fear Me,” says the LORD of Hosts. (Malachi 3:5) Defining “Denying Justice” • Scripture treats justice as giving every person what God says they are due—dignity, protection, fair treatment, truthful testimony, and impartial judgment (Deuteronomy 16:19; Proverbs 31:8-9). • To “deny” justice means to block or withhold these God-assigned rights through action, inaction, or distortion of truth. Obvious Ways We Deny Justice Today • Exploiting workers—underpaying wages, withholding benefits, or ignoring unsafe conditions (James 5:4). • Bribery and corruption—manipulating courts, zoning boards, or police for personal gain (Isaiah 1:23). • Discriminatory laws or policies—crafting regulations that favor the powerful and burden the vulnerable (Isaiah 10:1-2). • False testimony—spreading lies or misleading statements that ruin reputations or sway verdicts (Proverbs 19:5). Subtle, Often Overlooked Forms • Indifference—turning a blind eye to mistreatment because it is inconvenient to address (Luke 10:31-32). • Selective outrage—speaking up only when injustice affects our own group or political side (James 2:1-4). • Predatory lending or pricing—trapping the poor in unpayable debt or charging exploitative fees (Exodus 22:25). • Redlining or exclusionary zoning—keeping certain neighborhoods under-resourced while others flourish (Jeremiah 22:13). • Media distortion—spinning narratives that vilify the innocent or excuse the guilty (Proverbs 17:15). Heart Roots Behind Denying Justice • Greed—placing profit above people (1 Timothy 6:10). • Fear—protecting comfortable status by resisting social change (John 12:42-43). • Pride—viewing some lives as less valuable than others (Philippians 2:3). • Unbelief—forgetting that God sees and will judge every deed (Ecclesiastes 12:14). Scriptural Correctives • Remember God’s character: “The LORD loves justice” (Psalm 37:28). • Obey His command: “Learn to do right; seek justice; defend the oppressed” (Isaiah 1:17). • Speak for the voiceless: “Open your mouth, judge righteously” (Proverbs 31:9). • Practice impartiality: “Show no partiality as you hold the faith” (James 2:1). • Anticipate accountability: “Each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). Living It Out • Examine personal finances, business practices, and voting habits for any harm done to the vulnerable. • Support organizations that provide legal aid, fair-trade employment, or refugee assistance. • Refuse gossip and misinformation; verify facts before repeating them. • Mentor or befriend widows, orphans, and immigrants in your community, meeting practical needs. • Intercede for leaders, urging them toward righteous policies (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Closing Challenge Justice denied on earth will be rectified in heaven; until then, followers of Christ are called to mirror His righteous rule in every sphere of life. |
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