Why is it important to seek justice before making judgments, as Nicodemus suggests? Setting the Scene John 7 finds the religious leaders angry at Jesus. In verse 50, “Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who himself was one of them, asked” a simple but piercing question (v. 51): “Does our Law judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing?” His appeal is a call to justice before judgment. God’s Pattern: Hear, Then Judge • Deuteronomy 1:16-17 — judges were told, “Hear the disputes… do not show partiality… for judgment belongs to God.” • Proverbs 18:13 — “He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” • James 1:19 — “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Why Seeking Justice First Matters • Reflects God’s character – Isaiah 30:18: “The LORD is a God of justice.” – When we listen and investigate, we mirror His fairness. • Guards against false witness – Exodus 20:16 forbids bearing false testimony; careful inquiry prevents it. • Protects the innocent and restores the guilty – Zechariah 7:9: “Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion.” – Justice opens the door to repentance and reconciliation. • Maintains unity in the body – Matthew 18:15-17 outlines steps for resolving conflict, emphasizing private listening before public judgment. • Prepares us for God’s final assessment – Matthew 7:1-2: “For with the judgment you pronounce, you will be judged.” Honest, measured judgments acknowledge our own coming evaluation before Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10). Nicodemus’s Example for Us • Courage: He speaks up amid hostility. • Clarity: He appeals to Scripture, not personal opinion. • Compassion: He values a fair hearing, implicitly valuing Jesus’ life. Practical Steps to Follow 1. Slow down — refuse snap conclusions (Proverbs 18:17). 2. Gather facts — listen to all sides (Deuteronomy 19:15). 3. Check motives — ask, “Am I seeking truth or vindication?” (Psalm 139:23-24). 4. Apply equal weights — same standard for friend or foe (Leviticus 19:15). 5. Act decisively once truth is clear — justice delayed can become justice denied (Isaiah 1:17). Living It Today When conflicts arise at home, church, or workplace, Nicodemus reminds us: justice first, judgment second. Listening long, weighing evidence, and seeking God’s righteous standard protect us from error and honor the One who will judge all with perfect justice. |
    |