What other scriptures highlight the necessity of hearing the accused's defense? Setting the Scene: Acts 25:16 “I told them that it is not the Roman custom to hand a man over before he has an opportunity to face his accusers and defend himself against their charges.” (Acts 25:16) Paul’s appeal before Festus highlights a principle deeply woven through Scripture: God expects that an accused person be heard before judgment is rendered. Old Testament Foundations for a Fair Hearing • Deuteronomy 19:15 – “A single witness shall not suffice to convict a man of any crime or wrongdoing… a matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” • Deuteronomy 19:16-19 – Judges must “make a thorough investigation,” and false witnesses face the penalty they hoped to inflict. • Numbers 35:30 – “No one is to be put to death based on the testimony of a lone witness.” • Exodus 23:1-2 – Israel is warned against false reports and mob verdicts. • Deuteronomy 1:16-17 – Judges are commanded, “Hear the disputes between your brothers, and judge fairly… show no partiality.” God’s law insists on multiple witnesses, careful inquiry, and the accused person’s voice—protections designed to mirror His justice. Wisdom Literature: Listening Before Judging • Proverbs 18:13 – “He who answers before he hears, it is folly and shame to him.” • Proverbs 18:17 – “The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.” Israel’s wisdom tradition warns that judgments made without hearing both sides are foolish and unreliable. Gospel Accounts and Jesus’ Teaching • Matthew 18:15-16 – Private confrontation first, then “take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’” • John 7:51 – Nicodemus asks, “Does our Law condemn a man without first hearing from him to determine what he has done?” Even opponents of Jesus recognized this safeguard. New Testament Instructions to the Church • 1 Timothy 5:19 – “Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses.” • 2 Corinthians 13:1 – “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” • James 1:19 – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” The apostle broadens the principle: listening precedes judging in all relationships. Why God Requires a Defense • Reflects His impartial character (Acts 10:34; Deuteronomy 10:17). • Protects the innocent from false accusation (Deuteronomy 19:18-19). • Preserves community trust and unity (Matthew 18:15-17). • Upholds truth by allowing facts to surface through examination (Proverbs 18:17). Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Give space for anyone accused to speak fully before drawing conclusions. • Require corroboration—avoid spreading claims that rest on a single voice. • Conduct thorough, gracious investigations when conflict arises within church, family, or workplace. • Remember that hasty judgment dishonors God’s justice, while patient listening reflects His heart. From Moses to Paul, Scripture consistently insists: justice demands that the accused be heard. |
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