Do not deny 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. Do not deny justice or show partiality.This command emphasizes the importance of fairness and impartiality in judgment, reflecting God's own nature as a just and impartial judge (Deuteronomy 10:17). In the ancient Near Eastern context, justice was often compromised by social status or wealth, but Israel was called to a higher standard. The Mosaic Law consistently underscores the need for justice, especially for the vulnerable, such as widows, orphans, and foreigners (Exodus 23:6; Leviticus 19:15). This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are reminded that God shows no favoritism (Acts 10:34; James 2:1-9). Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe author of Deuteronomy, who is delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites. 2. Israelites The audience receiving the laws, as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. 3. Judges and Officials The individuals specifically addressed in this verse, responsible for maintaining justice among the people. 4. Promised Land The land of Canaan, where the Israelites are heading and where these laws are to be implemented. 5. God's Covenant The overarching agreement between God and Israel, which includes adherence to His laws as a condition for blessing. Teaching Points Upholding JusticeAs followers of Christ, we are called to uphold justice in all areas of life, ensuring fairness and integrity in our dealings. Avoiding Partiality We must be vigilant against favoritism, recognizing that all people are created in the image of God and deserve equal treatment. Rejecting Corruption Bribery and corruption are antithetical to God's character and His call for righteousness; we must reject them in our personal and professional lives. Wisdom and Righteousness True wisdom and righteousness are rooted in God's Word, and we must guard against anything that would compromise our ability to discern and speak truth. Reflecting God's Character Our actions should reflect God's justice and righteousness, serving as a testimony to His transformative power in our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the command to "not deny justice or show partiality" challenge our current societal norms, and how can we apply this in our daily interactions?2. In what ways can accepting a bribe "blind the eyes of the wise" in today's context, and how can we guard against this in our decision-making processes? 3. How do the principles in Deuteronomy 16:19 align with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament regarding justice and impartiality? 4. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced partiality. How did it affect your perception of justice, and what steps can you take to promote fairness in similar situations? 5. Considering the broader biblical account, how does the call to justice in Deuteronomy 16:19 connect with God's ultimate plan for redemption and restoration through Christ? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 23:8This verse also warns against accepting bribes, emphasizing that they corrupt justice. Proverbs 17:23 Highlights the wickedness of accepting bribes and its impact on justice. James 2:1-9 Discusses the sin of showing partiality, particularly in the context of the Christian community. Micah 6:8 Calls for justice, mercy, and humility, aligning with the principles in Deuteronomy 16:19. Isaiah 1:23 Criticizes leaders who love bribes and fail to defend the cause of the fatherless and the widow.
People Levites, MosesPlaces Beth-baal-peor, EgyptTopics Accept, Aside, Blind, Blindeth, Blinds, Bribe, Cause, Decisions, Discern, Distort, Faces, Gift, Judging, Judgment, Justice, Man's, Moved, Partial, Partiality, Persons, Pervert, Perverteth, Perverts, Position, Respect, Rewards, Righteous, Subverts, Turn, Twists, Upright, Wise, WrestDictionary of Bible Themes Deuteronomy 16:19 5134 blindness, natural 8471 respect, for human beings 5238 bribery Library The Age of the Apostles (Ad 33-100)The beginning of the Christian Church is reckoned from the great day on which the Holy Ghost came down, according as our Lord had promised to His Apostles. At that time, "Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven," were gathered together at Jerusalem, to keep the Feast of Pentecost (or Feast of Weeks), which was one of the three holy seasons at which God required His people to appear before Him in the place which He had chosen (Deuteronomy xvi. 16). Many of these devout men there converted … J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation Whether Six Daughters are Fittingly Assigned to Gluttony? Whether Pride Should be Reckoned a Capital vice? The Passing and the Permanent Obedience The Second Commandment Appeal to the Christian Women of the South The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Deuteronomy Links Deuteronomy 16:19 NIVDeuteronomy 16:19 NLT Deuteronomy 16:19 ESV Deuteronomy 16:19 NASB Deuteronomy 16:19 KJV Deuteronomy 16:19 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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