How can believers support justice while offering grace and redemption opportunities? Facing the Verse: Proverbs 28:17 “A man burdened by bloodguilt will be a fugitive until death; let no one support him.” What the Proverb Tells Us • Bloodguilt—taking innocent life—creates a lifelong moral weight. • The wrong-doer lives as a “fugitive,” always looking over his shoulder. • God warns, “let no one support him”; helping someone dodge rightful consequences is off-limits. Justice That Mirrors God’s Character • Scripture ties justice to God’s own nature (Deuteronomy 32:4). • Civil authority is “God’s servant for your good” and “an avenger who brings wrath on the wrongdoer” (Romans 13:4). • By refusing to shield lawbreakers, believers: – Honor the sanctity of life (Genesis 9:6). – Protect the innocent (Proverbs 24:11–12). – Prevent further harm (Ecclesiastes 8:11). Grace That Mirrors God’s Heart • God “desires all people to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:4). • Christ’s cross shows judgment satisfied so mercy may flow (Romans 3:26). • Believers extend: – A clear gospel call: “Repent…that your sins may be wiped out” (Acts 3:19). – Personal restoration: “Restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness” (Galatians 6:1). – Ongoing discipleship: stepping alongside repentant offenders after they face justice (Philemon 10–16). Holding Justice and Grace Together—Practical Steps 1. Tell the truth. Cooperate with law enforcement, testify when needed (Ephesians 4:25). 2. Refuse to enable. Do not hide evidence, fund a fugitive lifestyle, or minimize sin (Proverbs 17:15). 3. Encourage surrender. Urge the wrong-doer to confess (Psalm 32:5) and accept lawful penalties. 4. Support victims. Offer presence, material help, and advocacy (Isaiah 1:17). 5. Offer gospel hope. Visit those in jail (Matthew 25:36), share Scripture, pray with them. 6. Provide post-sentence community. Job referrals, church fellowship, accountability partners (2 Corinthians 5:17–18). Biblical Snapshots of the Balance • David and Nathan (2 Samuel 12): Sin confronted; forgiveness granted; consequences remained. • Woman caught in adultery (John 8:1–11): Jesus upholds the law, exposes hypocrisy, then says, “Go and sin no more.” • Paul and Onesimus (Philemon): The apostle sends a runaway slave back, honoring justice, while pleading for grace. When Justice Has Run Its Course • After penalties are paid, believers treat the repentant as family in Christ (Colossians 3:13). • Past sin no longer defines identity; Christ does (1 Corinthians 6:11). Living It Out • Ask: “Am I shielding anyone from needed accountability?” • Look for opportunities to visit prisons, mentor ex-offenders, or give to victim-aid ministries. • Keep mercy and truth in tandem: “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss” (Psalm 85:10). |
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