Bribery

Bribery, the act of giving or receiving something of value in exchange for influence or action, is consistently condemned in the Bible. It is seen as a corrupt practice that perverts justice and undermines the integrity of individuals and institutions. The Bible provides numerous warnings against bribery, emphasizing its destructive impact on society and its opposition to God's standards of righteousness.

In the Old Testament, the law explicitly prohibits bribery. Exodus 23:8 states, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous." This command highlights the corrupting power of bribes, which can distort judgment and lead to injustice. Similarly, Deuteronomy 16:19 instructs, "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."

The prophets also speak out against bribery, often associating it with the moral decay of society. Isaiah 1:23 laments, "Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves. They all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the fatherless, and the plea of the widow never comes before them." This verse illustrates how bribery is linked to a broader failure to uphold justice and protect the vulnerable.

In the New Testament, the theme of integrity and impartiality continues. While the term "bribery" is not explicitly mentioned, the principles of honesty and justice are upheld. For instance, in Acts 24:26 , Felix, the Roman governor, hoped for a bribe from Paul, demonstrating how the expectation of bribery was a common practice even in the early Christian era.

Justice

Justice, a central theme in the Bible, reflects God's character and His desire for righteousness and fairness in human affairs. The Bible portrays God as the ultimate judge who upholds justice and calls His people to do the same. Justice is not merely a legal concept but a moral imperative that encompasses fairness, equity, and the protection of the vulnerable.

The Old Testament lays a strong foundation for justice, with numerous laws and commandments designed to ensure fair treatment for all individuals. Leviticus 19:15 commands, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly." This verse underscores the importance of impartiality and fairness in judicial matters.

The prophets frequently call for justice, often in response to societal corruption and oppression. Micah 6:8 famously declares, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse encapsulates the biblical mandate for justice as an integral part of a faithful life.

In the New Testament, Jesus embodies and teaches justice, emphasizing love and mercy as its foundation. In Matthew 23:23 , Jesus rebukes the Pharisees, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness." Here, Jesus highlights the importance of justice as a core component of true religious practice.

The apostles also stress the importance of justice within the Christian community. James 2:1-4 warns against favoritism, urging believers to treat all people with fairness and equality, reflecting the just nature of God.

In summary, the Bible presents bribery as a corrupt practice that undermines justice, while justice itself is portrayed as a divine attribute and a moral obligation for God's people. Through its teachings, the Bible calls for a society where justice prevails, free from the corrupting influence of bribery.