What other scriptures emphasize God's justice in a world of wickedness? Ecclesiastes 3:16 in focus “Furthermore, I saw under the sun that in the place of judgment there is wickedness, and in the place of righteousness there is wickedness.” (Ecclesiastes 3:16) Solomon looks around the courtroom and even the temple precincts and finds corruption. His observation raises a question every generation asks: Where is God’s justice when evil seems to dominate? Scripture answers over and over that God both sees and acts. god is still on the throne • “The LORD is in His holy temple; the LORD is on His heavenly throne. His eyes are watching closely; they examine the sons of men.” • “For the LORD is righteous; He loves justice. The upright will see His face.” • “But the LORD abides forever; He has established His throne for judgment. He judges the world with justice; He will govern the peoples with equity.” god loves and defends justice today • “For the LORD loves justice and will not forsake His saints. They are preserved forever, but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off.” • The LORD “exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things.” • God pronounces woe on those who “justify the wicked for a bribe, and deprive the innocent of justice,” proving that He measures every crooked verdict. god calls us to trust His timing Habakkuk 1:13; 2:3–4 • Habakkuk protests, “Why are You silent when the wicked swallow up those more righteous than they?” • God replies, “Though it lingers, wait for it; it will surely come and will not delay.” • “The righteous will live by faith,” anchoring hope in God’s future judgment. • “Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: ‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.’” • “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows, he will reap in return.” justice already displayed at the cross • God presented Christ “to demonstrate His righteousness… so that He might be just and the One who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.” • The cross proves God never overlooks sin; He either punishes it in the sinner or bears it Himself in the Savior. justice ultimately completed in the future • “It is only right for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you… when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in blazing fire.” • Martyrs cry, “How long… until You avenge our blood?” and are told to “rest a little while longer,” pointing to certain judgment day. • “I saw a great white throne… and the dead were judged according to their deeds.” living in light of god’s sure justice • Rest: God notices every hidden act, and His timetable is flawless. • Resist bitterness: leave room for His righteous vengeance. • Reflect His heart: pursue integrity, defend the oppressed, love righteousness, hate wickedness, and proclaim the gospel that satisfies both mercy and justice. |
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