Jesus spoke about justice and injustice in various passages throughout the Gospels, illustrating the importance of fairness, mercy, and God’s judgment. Here are some Bible verses that reflect His teachings on this matter:
- Luke 18:1-8 – This parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge teaches about the importance of persistently seeking justice and the assurance that God will bring about justice for His chosen ones who cry out to Him day and night. Jesus concludes by questioning whether He will find faith on earth when He returns, linking faith to the quest for justice .
- Ezekiel 18:25-30 – Although not directly from the words of Jesus, this Old Testament passage resonates with His teachings on justice and personal responsibility. God declares that He will judge each person according to their ways, urging the wicked to turn from their ways and live. This passage highlights God’s fairness and the principle that a person is accountable for their actions .
- Deuteronomy 16:19-20 – This commandment to the Israelites not to pervert justice, show partiality, or accept bribes underscores the value of justice in God’s law. It emphasizes that justice is foundational for life and inheritance in the land God gives them. This Old Testament teaching forms the backdrop for Jesus’ emphasis on justice in His ministry .
Three main takeaways from Jesus’ teachings on justice include:
- Persistence in Prayer for Justice: Like the widow in Luke 18, believers are encouraged to persistently pray for justice, trusting that God hears and will act on behalf of those who call on Him.
- Personal Responsibility and Repentance: Individuals are responsible for their actions, and there is a call to repentance and turning from wickedness to live. Justice is not just about societal structures but also about personal ethics and morality.
- The Foundation of Justice in God’s Character: God’s commandments regarding justice, as seen in the Old Testament, reveal that justice is part of His character and His plan for human society. Jesus’ teachings and life exemplify and fulfill these divine principles of justice.
