Which other Bible verses emphasize impartiality in judgment like Exodus 23:3? Opening Verse Exodus 23:3 — “And do not show favoritism to a poor man in his lawsuit.” Why Impartiality Matters • Justice flows from God’s own character; He is “no respecter of persons.” • When we judge without bias we mirror His holiness, protect the vulnerable, and guard society from corruption. Old Testament Foundations • Leviticus 19:15 — “You must not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor nor favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly.” • Deuteronomy 1:17 — “Do not show partiality in judgment; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God.” • Deuteronomy 16:19 — “Do not deny justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.” • 2 Chronicles 19:7 — “Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice or partiality or bribe in the LORD our God.” • Proverbs 24:23 — “Partiality in judgment is not good.” • Proverbs 28:21 — “To show partiality is not good, yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.” • Isaiah 11:3-4 — “He will not judge by what His eyes see… but with righteousness He will judge the poor and with equity He will decide in favor of the earth’s oppressed.” • Zechariah 7:9-10 — “Administer true justice, show loving devotion and compassion each to his brother.” • Malachi 2:9 — “You are not keeping My ways but are showing partiality in the instruction.” New Testament Continuation • Matthew 22:16 — “You are not swayed by others, because You pay no regard to appearance.” • Acts 10:34-35 — “God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.” • Romans 2:11 — “For God does not show favoritism.” • Ephesians 6:9 — “There is no favoritism with Him.” • Colossians 3:25 — “There is no favoritism.” • 1 Timothy 5:21 — “Keep these things without prejudice and do nothing out of partiality.” • James 2:1 — “Do not show favoritism.” • James 2:9 — “If you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.” • 1 Peter 1:17 — “The Father… judges each one’s work impartially.” Living Out Impartiality Today • Examine motives: ask whether status, wealth, or appearance is influencing decisions. • Refuse bribes or any advantage that would twist justice. • Give equal hearing to all—rich, poor, powerful, unknown. • Speak truth even when it costs; fear God more than people. • Trust the Holy Spirit to form Christ-like fairness in every sphere—home, church, workplace, community. |
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