Introduction

The concepts of law and justice are central themes throughout the Bible, reflecting God's character and His expectations for human conduct. The Bible presents law as a divine ordinance, a reflection of God's holiness, and justice as the equitable and fair treatment of individuals, rooted in God's righteousness.

Biblical Law

The foundation of biblical law is found in the Torah, particularly in the first five books of the Old Testament. The Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites, encompasses moral, ceremonial, and civil laws. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) serve as the core moral code, emphasizing duties to God and fellow humans. The law is described as perfect and righteous: "The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple" (Psalm 19:7).

The New Testament reaffirms the importance of the law, with Jesus Christ fulfilling its requirements. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus states, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them" . The law serves as a tutor leading to Christ, highlighting humanity's need for a Savior (Galatians 3:24).

Justice in the Old Testament

Justice in the Old Testament is closely linked to righteousness and is a fundamental attribute of God. The Hebrew word for justice, "mishpat," often appears alongside "tzedakah," meaning righteousness. God commands His people to act justly, as seen 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?" .

The prophets frequently called Israel back to justice, condemning social injustices and urging the nation to uphold the rights of the poor and marginalized. Isaiah 1:17 exhorts, "Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow" .

Justice in the New Testament

In the New Testament, justice is embodied in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the spirit of the law over mere legalism, advocating for a justice that transcends human traditions. Jesus' parables, such as the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), illustrate the call to love and serve others, reflecting God's justice.

The apostle Paul reiterates the importance of justice in the Christian life. Romans 13:1-7 outlines the role of governing authorities as God's servants to maintain justice, stating, "For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad" (Romans 13:3). Believers are called to live justly, as seen in Colossians 4:1: "Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven" .

God's Ultimate Justice

The Bible assures that God's ultimate justice will prevail. The eschatological hope is that God will judge the world with righteousness. Revelation 20:12 describes the final judgment: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and there were open books. And one of them was the book of life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books" .

Throughout Scripture, the themes of law and justice reveal God's desire for a holy and just society, reflecting His character and pointing humanity toward redemption through Jesus Christ.