Topical Bible: Magistrates: should be Diligent in Ruling

◄ Magistrates: should be Diligent in Ruling ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, magistrates are civil officers or judges who are entrusted with the administration of justice and governance. The role of magistrates is significant in maintaining order and executing the laws within a society. The Bible provides guidance on the qualities and responsibilities expected of those in such positions, emphasizing the importance of diligence in their duties.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of magistrates is rooted in the biblical principle of justice and righteousness. In the Old Testament, the appointment of judges and officials was a critical aspect of governance. Moses, under God's instruction, appointed capable men to serve as judges over the people of Israel. These men were to be "able men, God-fearing, trustworthy, and hating bribes" (Exodus 18:21). This passage highlights the necessity for integrity and diligence in those who serve as magistrates.

Diligence in Ruling

Diligence is a key attribute for magistrates, as they are responsible for making fair and just decisions. Proverbs 20:8 states, "A king who sits on a throne to judge sifts out all evil with his eyes." This proverb underscores the importance of vigilance and discernment in leadership. Magistrates must be attentive and thorough in their examination of cases, ensuring that justice is served without partiality.

The New Testament also speaks to the role of governing authorities. Romans 13:1-4 affirms that all authority is established by God, and those who serve as magistrates are "God’s servants for your good." This passage implies that magistrates have a divine mandate to act diligently and justly, as they are accountable to God for their actions.

Responsibilities and Conduct

Magistrates are called to uphold justice and protect the rights of individuals. They must be diligent in their pursuit of truth and fairness, avoiding corruption and favoritism. Deuteronomy 16:18-20 instructs, "Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the LORD your God is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly. Do not pervert 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."

This directive emphasizes the need for magistrates to be impartial and steadfast in their commitment to justice. Their diligence in ruling is not only a matter of personal integrity but also a reflection of their obedience to God's commands.

Examples of Diligent Magistrates

The Bible provides examples of leaders who exemplified diligence in their roles. King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, is a prime example. When faced with difficult decisions, Solomon sought divine wisdom to rule justly. His request for wisdom to govern the people effectively pleased God, who granted him unparalleled understanding (1 Kings 3:9-12).

Another example is Nehemiah, who served as a governor in Jerusalem. Nehemiah demonstrated diligence in rebuilding the city walls and reforming the community. His leadership was marked by prayer, perseverance, and a commitment to justice (Nehemiah 5:14-19).

Conclusion

The biblical mandate for magistrates to be diligent in ruling is clear. They are to serve as impartial and just leaders, upholding the principles of righteousness and truth. Through their diligent service, magistrates fulfill their God-given role in maintaining order and justice within society.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Romans 12:8
Or he that exhorts, on exhortation: he that gives, let him do it with simplicity; he that rules, with diligence; he that shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Scriptural Christianity
... not prevail with us, even though they should really convince ... have said, Ye are gods,"
ye magistrates and rulers ... Are you diligent in your easy business, pursuing ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 4 scriptural christianity.htm

St. Gregory the Great.
... us seem to us kinder than the magistrates of the ... the judgment of the Apostolic See,
after diligent examination of ... "Government of subjects should be tempered ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter v st gregory the.htm

Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times
... reasons why heresies and religious divisions should abound in ... The Pope now ruling
had, however, put himself in ... But the new magistrates and the Bishop remained ...
/.../introductory notice respecting taulers life.htm

Period iv. The Age of the Consolidation of the Church: 200 to 324 ...
... But if he should sin frequently after this, and then repent, to such a man ... of the
polluted surround him; nor are there any who are more diligent in purchasing ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period iv the age of.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... of all devils"they deny all obedience to magistrates.'[69 ... no farther; for if indeed
you should not be ... This encouraged him to a diligent search from Genesis to ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... Reader, is it not surprizing, that such a treatise should have remained
comparatively hidden for more than one hundred and fifty years. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm