Topical Encyclopedia Justice, as a divine attribute and a moral imperative, is a central theme throughout the Bible. It is not merely a legalistic concept but a reflection of God's character and His expectations for His people. The saints, as followers of Christ, are called to embody justice in their lives, taking pleasure in doing what is right and fair according to God's standards.Biblical Foundation of Justice The Bible presents justice as an essential aspect of God's nature. In Deuteronomy 32:4, it is declared, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He." This verse underscores that justice is inherent to God's character, and as His followers, the saints are called to reflect this attribute in their lives. Justice in the Old Testament The Old Testament is replete with calls for justice, particularly in the context of social and communal life. The prophet Micah encapsulates this call in Micah 6:8: "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?" Here, justice is not an abstract concept but a practical requirement for living in accordance with God's will. The Psalms also emphasize the joy and righteousness found in justice. Psalm 106:3 states, "Blessed are those who uphold justice, who practice righteousness at all times." This verse highlights the blessedness and joy that come from living a life committed to justice. Justice in the New Testament In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies perfect justice. His teachings and actions consistently reflect a commitment to justice, mercy, and truth. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for neglecting the weightier matters of the law: "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. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." The Apostle Paul also exhorts believers to pursue justice. In Romans 12:17-18, he writes, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This passage encourages believers to seek justice and peace, even in the face of wrongdoing. The Saints' Delight in Justice For the saints, taking pleasure in justice is both a duty and a delight. Proverbs 21:15 declares, "Justice executed is a joy to the righteous, but a terror to the workers of iniquity." This verse illustrates that the righteous find joy in the execution of justice, as it aligns with their desire to live in harmony with God's will. Furthermore, the pursuit of justice is an expression of love for one's neighbor. In James 2:8, the royal law is summarized: "If you really fulfill the royal law stated in Scripture, 'Love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing well." Justice, therefore, is an outworking of love, as it seeks the good and fair treatment of others. Conclusion The call to justice is a call to reflect God's character in the world. For the saints, taking pleasure in doing justice is a natural response to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. As they pursue justice, they participate in God's redemptive plan, bringing His righteousness and peace to a world in need. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 21:15It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library That the Example of Certain Saints who Seem to have Exercised ... Baxter -- Making Light of Christ and Salvation An Appendix to the Beatitudes 1 Cor. v. 11-Sep Philippians i. 1, 2 "But Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God," &C. The Excellencies of the Saints' Rest. Man's Inability to Keep the Moral Law we have not only so high a pattern, but so excellent a motive Marks of Having Received the Holy Ghost Resources What does the Bible say about social justice? | GotQuestions.orgHow do God's mercy and justice work together in salvation? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is a God of justice? | GotQuestions.org Justice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus 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 |