Sin

Sin, in the biblical context, is understood as any action, thought, or attitude that falls short of God's perfect standard of holiness and righteousness. It is a transgression against the divine law and a rebellion against God's authority. The concept of sin is foundational to the Christian faith, as it explains the broken relationship between humanity and God and the need for redemption.

The origin of sin is traced back to the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, as recorded in Genesis 3. This original sin introduced a fallen nature into the human race, resulting in spiritual death and separation from God. Romans 5:12 states, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned."

Sin manifests in various forms, including but not limited to pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth. The Bible categorizes sin into sins of commission (actively doing what is forbidden) and sins of omission (failing to do what is required). James 4:17 highlights the latter: "Therefore, whoever knows the right thing to do, yet fails to do it, is guilty of sin."

The consequences of sin are severe, leading to spiritual death and eternal separation from God. Romans 6:23 warns, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Sin not only affects the individual but also has communal and cosmic implications, disrupting relationships and the created order.

Justice

Justice, as depicted in the Bible, is an attribute of God and a fundamental principle of His kingdom. It involves the fair and impartial treatment of individuals, the upholding of righteousness, and the rectification of wrongs. God's justice is rooted in His character, as He is described as a just and righteous judge. Psalm 89:14 declares, "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; loving devotion and truth go before You."

Biblical justice is not merely punitive but also restorative. It seeks to restore relationships and communities to a state of wholeness and peace. The prophets of the Old Testament frequently called for justice, emphasizing the need to care for the marginalized and oppressed. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call: "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?"

In the New Testament, justice is closely linked with the concept of righteousness and is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus satisfies the demands of divine justice, offering forgiveness and reconciliation to sinners. Romans 3:25-26 explains, "God presented Him as the atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand. He did this to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and to justify the one who has faith in Jesus."

Believers are called to reflect God's justice in their lives by advocating for the oppressed, practicing fairness, and living in accordance with God's commandments. Proverbs 21:3 states, "To do righteousness and justice is more desirable to the LORD than sacrifice." In this way, justice is not only a divine attribute but also a mandate for human conduct, reflecting the character of God in a fallen world.