Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature True justice, as depicted in the Bible, is the moral and ethical standard by which God governs the universe. It is rooted in God's character, reflecting His holiness, righteousness, and love. True justice is impartial, equitable, and seeks the restoration of right relationships between individuals and God, as well as among people. Biblical Foundation The concept of justice is central to the biblical narrative, beginning with the creation account where God establishes order and harmony. In Genesis 18:25, Abraham appeals to God's nature as the ultimate judge: "Far be it from You to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Will not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?" . This rhetorical question underscores the belief that God's actions are inherently just. Old Testament Insights The Old Testament law, given to Israel, is a reflection of God's justice. The Mosaic Law includes numerous statutes aimed at ensuring justice within the community, such as fair treatment of the poor, widows, and orphans (Exodus 22:22-24). 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" . Justice is also a recurring theme in the prophetic literature, where prophets like Isaiah and Amos call out the injustices of their time and urge a return to God's standards (Isaiah 1:17; Amos 5:24). New Testament Revelation In the New Testament, true justice is further revealed through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies God's justice, offering forgiveness and reconciliation through His sacrificial death and resurrection. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for neglecting "the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness" , highlighting the integral role of justice in God's kingdom. The apostle Paul also emphasizes justice in his epistles, urging believers to live justly and to uphold God's standards in their communities. Romans 12:19-21 instructs believers to leave vengeance to God and to overcome evil with good, reflecting a trust in divine justice. Justice and Righteousness In Scripture, justice is often linked with righteousness. The Hebrew word "mishpat" (justice) and the Greek word "dikaiosyne" (righteousness) are frequently used together, indicating that true justice is not merely legal correctness but encompasses moral integrity and ethical behavior. Psalm 89:14 declares, "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; loving devotion and truth go before You" . Practical Implications True justice requires action. Micah 6:8 succinctly summarizes the call to justice: "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?" . Believers are called to reflect God's justice in their personal lives, communities, and societies, advocating for the oppressed and marginalized. Eschatological Perspective The Bible assures that true justice will ultimately be realized in God's eschatological plan. Revelation 20:12-13 describes the final judgment, where all will be judged according to their deeds, affirming that God's justice will prevail in the end. This future hope motivates believers to pursue justice in the present, trusting in God's ultimate authority and righteousness. Subtopics Justice: Brings Its own Reward Justice: Christ, an Example of Justice: General Scriptures Concerning Justice: God: Displeased With the Want of Justice: God: Gives Wisdom to Execute Justice: God: Sets the Highest Value On Justice: Saints should Always Do Justice: Saints should Pray for Wisdom to Execute Justice: Saints should Receive Instruction In Justice: Saints should Study the Principles of Justice: Saints should Take Pleasure in Doing Justice: Saints should Teach Others to Do Justice: Specially Required in Rulers Justice: The Wicked: Afflict Those Who Act With Justice: The Wicked: Call not For Justice: The Wicked: Pass Over Justice: To be Done in Buying and Selling Justice: To be Done in Executing Judgment Justice: To be Done: To Servants Justice: To be Done: To the Fatherless and Widows Justice: To be Done: To the Poor The Justice of God is a Part of his Character The Justice of God: Acknowledge The Justice of God: Declared to be without Respect of Persons The Justice of God: Declared to Be: Impartial The Justice of God: Declared to Be: Incomparable The Justice of God: Declared to Be: Incorruptible The Justice of God: Declared to Be: Plenteous The Justice of God: Declared to Be: The Habitation of his Throne The Justice of God: Declared to Be: Undeviating The Justice of God: Declared to Be: Unfailing The Justice of God: Denied by the Ungodly The Justice of God: Exhibited in all his Ways The Justice of God: Exhibited in Forgiving Sins The Justice of God: Exhibited in His Government The Justice of God: Exhibited in His Judgments The Justice of God: Exhibited in Redemption The Justice of God: Exhibited in The Final Judgment The Justice of God: Not to be Sinned Against Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |