What other scriptures warn against the dangers of bribery and corruption? Setting the Scene with Proverbs 17:8 “A bribe is a charm to its giver; wherever he turns, he succeeds.” ‑ Proverbs 17:8 The verse captures the deceptive appeal of bribery—it looks like a fast track to success, yet Scripture consistently exposes the trap behind the charm. Clear Commands Against Bribery • Exodus 23:8 — “Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and corrupts the words of the righteous.” • 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 — “There is no injustice or partiality or bribery with the LORD our God.” Why God Rejects Corruption • God is just (Isaiah 30:18); bribery perverts justice. • God is impartial (Acts 10:34); bribery shows partiality. • God is truth (John 14:6); bribery twists truth into lies. The Ripple Effects on Society • Proverbs 29:4 — “By justice a king gives stability to the land, but a man who exacts tribute brings it to ruin.” • Isaiah 1:23 — “Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves; they all love bribes and chase after gifts.” • Amos 5:12 — “You oppress the righteous, take bribes, and deprive the poor of justice at the gates.” • Micah 7:3 — “The ruler demands a gift, the judge accepts a bribe… they conspire together.” Personal Consequences of Greed • Proverbs 15:27 — “He who is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble on his household, but he who hates bribes will live.” • Proverbs 17:23 — “A wicked man accepts a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice.” • Proverbs 28:16 — “A leader who lacks judgment is a great oppressor, but he who hates dishonest gain will prolong his days.” • 1 Samuel 8:3 — “[Samuel’s sons] turned aside after dishonest gain, took bribes, and perverted justice.” God’s Prophets Cry Out • Isaiah 5:23 — “Who acquit the guilty for a bribe and deprive the innocent of justice.” • Ezekiel 22:12 — “In you they take bribes to shed blood… you have forgotten Me, declares the Lord GOD.” • Micah 3:11 — “Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price…” • Habakkuk 1:4 — “Justice never prevails… justice comes out perverted.” Living Above Reproach • Titus 1:7 — “An overseer… must be blameless… not greedy for money.” • 1 Peter 5:2 — “Shepherd the flock… not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve.” Practical habits: – Keep all finances transparent. – Refuse gifts that create obligation. – Speak up when you see injustice. – Cultivate contentment; greed fuels bribery. Key Takeaways for Today • Bribery promises quick success but undermines God’s design for justice. • God’s Word—from Moses to the prophets to the apostles—treats bribery as sin, never a harmless shortcut. • Personal integrity and societal stability both collapse when corruption takes root. • Choosing honesty aligns us with God’s character and secures His blessing over our homes, churches, and communities. |
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