Topical Bible: Injustice: Princes

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the theme of injustice perpetrated by princes and rulers is a recurring concern, reflecting the broader moral and ethical teachings of Scripture. The Bible frequently addresses the responsibilities and failures of those in positions of authority, emphasizing the divine expectation for justice and righteousness.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of princes and rulers who failed to uphold justice, often leading to societal decay and divine judgment. In the book of Isaiah, the prophet condemns the leaders of Judah for their corruption and failure to defend the oppressed: "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" (Isaiah 1:23). This passage highlights the moral decay among the leaders, who prioritize personal gain over their duty to protect the vulnerable.

Similarly, the prophet Ezekiel denounces the princes of Israel for their violent and oppressive actions: "Her princes within her are like wolves tearing their prey, shedding blood, and destroying lives for dishonest gain" (Ezekiel 22:27). Here, the imagery of wolves underscores the predatory nature of the rulers, who exploit their power at the expense of justice and righteousness.

Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also addresses the issue of injustice among rulers. Proverbs 28:15 compares a wicked ruler to a "roaring lion or a charging bear," illustrating the destructive impact of unjust leadership. The book of Ecclesiastes further reflects on the futility and sorrow caused by oppression: "If you see the oppression of the poor and the perversion of justice and righteousness in the province, do not be astonished at the matter. For one official watches over another, and higher officials are over them" (Ecclesiastes 5:8). This observation points to systemic injustice, where corruption permeates the ranks of authority.

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, the theme of injustice among rulers continues, with a focus on the ultimate justice brought by Christ. Jesus Himself experienced the injustice of earthly rulers, as seen in His trial and crucifixion. The Gospels recount how the religious and political leaders conspired against Him, leading to His wrongful execution (Matthew 27:1-2).

The apostle Paul, in his epistles, acknowledges the role of governing authorities but also warns against their potential for injustice. In Romans 13:1-4, Paul instructs believers to submit to authorities, recognizing their role as God's servants for good. However, he also implies that rulers are accountable to God for their actions, and their failure to administer justice will not escape divine scrutiny.

Prophetic Hope

Despite the prevalence of injustice among princes, the Bible offers a prophetic hope for a future where true justice will reign. The messianic prophecies in the Old Testament anticipate a righteous ruler who will establish justice and peace. Isaiah 9:6-7 speaks of a coming Prince of Peace whose government will be characterized by justice and righteousness: "Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from that time and forevermore" .

This hope is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose kingdom is marked by perfect justice and whose reign will ultimately rectify all earthly injustices. The biblical narrative, therefore, not only critiques the failures of human rulers but also points to the ultimate resolution of injustice through the divine governance of Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Daniel 6:4
Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; for as much as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Whether Christians are Bound to Obey the Secular Powers?
... Without justice, what else is a kingdom but a huge robbery?" Since therefore the
authority of secular princes is frequently exercised with injustice, or owes ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether christians are bound to.htm

Whether the Children of Jews and Other Unbelievers Ought to be ...
... Consequently kings and princes have the power to do what they will with Jewish children.
Therefore no injustice is committed if they baptize them against their ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether the children of jews.htm

On Threefold Wisdom.
... their freedom of will, chosen to produce, and to these belong those princes who
practise ... no other answer, so as to show that no shadow of injustice rests upon ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter iii on threefold wisdom.htm

From Megiddo to Carchemish, 608-605.
... Woe to who builds his house by injustice, XXII.13 His storeys by wrong, Who forces ...
When the princes of Judah heard of these things they came up from the king's ...
//christianbookshelf.org/smith/jeremiah/1 from megiddo to carchemish.htm

The vision of Paul.
... world, and I said to the angel: What is this, my Lord? and he said to me:
This is injustice stirred up by the princes of sinners. 14. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/unknown/the vision of paul/the vision of paul.htm

Christ's Sermon on the Mount in Manner and Contents it So ...
... From usury and injustice shall He redeem their souls, and in His sight shall their ...
the dunghill exalteth the poor; that He may set him with the princes of His ...
/.../tertullian/the five books against marcion/chapter xiv christs sermon on the.htm

Bishop Hosius Said: Our Importunity and Great Pertinacity and ...
... But since it often happens that those who are suffering from injustice or who ... Nothing
is more noteworthy than how from the first princes summoned bishops in ...
/.../schaff/the seven ecumenical councils/canon vii bishop hosius said .htm

On Mutual Subjection {1} --(First Printed in 1744)
... But here is the difference, that the princes of this world see by other ... employ their
power and favour in acts of oppression or injustice, in misrepresenting ...
/.../swift/three sermons three prayers/on mutual subjection 1first printed.htm

Surely Goodness and Mercy Shall Follow Me all the Days of My Life ...
... whips and scorns of time, behind the tongue that slanders and calumniates them,
behind the oppressor's wrong, the injustice and tyranny of princes and rulers ...
/.../callan/the shepherd of my soul/xi surely goodness and mercy.htm

A Rebuke against Extortion
... of injustice and oppression would call down His judgments. Upon hearing these words,
the armed men left the captives and the spoil before the princes and all ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 54 a rebuke against.htm