How does Jeremiah 22:17 highlight the importance of justice in leadership roles?

Setting the Scene in Jeremiah 22

“ ‘But your eyes and your heart are set on nothing except your own dishonest gain, on shedding innocent blood, on oppression and extortion.’ ” (Jeremiah 22:17)

---

Four Marks of Unjust Leadership Highlighted

• Eyes fixed on “dishonest gain”

  – Greed replaces stewardship (Proverbs 15:27).

• Heart bent toward “shedding innocent blood”

  – Violence instead of protection (Genesis 9:6).

• Pattern of “oppression”

  – Power used to crush, not lift (Isaiah 1:17).

• Practice of “extortion”

  – Taking rather than giving (Ezekiel 22:12).

---

Why Justice Matters to God’s Leaders

• God’s throne is founded on justice (Psalm 89:14).

• Leaders shape the moral climate of a nation (Proverbs 29:4).

• Injustice provokes divine judgment (Jeremiah 22:18-19; Isaiah 10:1-3).

• Justice safeguards the vulnerable, whom God defends (Psalm 72:12-14).

---

Biblical Blueprint for Just Leadership

• Know and obey God’s law Deuteronomy 17:18-20

• Rule in the fear of God 2 Samuel 23:3-4

• Walk humbly, love mercy, act justly Micah 6:8

• Show no favoritism James 2:8-9

• Serve as “a minister of God for good” Romans 13:4

---

Living It Out Today

• Examine motives—seek service over self-gain.

• Protect life—defend the innocent in policy and practice.

• Use authority to lift the oppressed, not burden them.

• Reject every form of exploitation; pursue transparency.

• Model justice in family, church, workplace, and civic life, reflecting the righteous King whose reign is forever just (Revelation 19:11).