JUSTICE

READING: DEUTERONOMY 1:9-18

Verse 17: “You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small as well as the great; you shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s...”

We often hear a great deal of concern expressed about our judicial system. We hear discussions which question the objectivity of federal judges some of whom are viewed as abusing their positions of trust. Much evidence supports charges against courts, particularly regarding the wealthy having advantages that are denied to those having less funds and influence. The result of many suspicions and accusations is that confidence in the consistent availability of justice is eroding. The Bible clearly identifies the heart of the problem that exists. The root of our suffering is simply the need for greater godly influence. In Deuteronomy 1, a system was established that permitted the people to be free of the fear of bad judgments. Verse 17 reveals the core of systematic righteous judgments where it says “the judgment is God’s”. They looked to the Lord rather than human reason for their justice. Today we desperately need the acceptance of a vital fact. That reality is that trustworthy judgments follow godliness. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. What response does this reading elicit from you?

2. How does this verse have application in our Christian church experiences?