Topical Bible: The Afflictions of the Wicked are often Judicially Sent

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Topical Encyclopedia

The concept that the afflictions of the wicked are often judicially sent is a recurring theme in the Bible, reflecting the divine justice and moral order established by God. This principle underscores the belief that God, as the righteous judge, administers justice by allowing or directly causing afflictions to befall those who engage in wickedness. This entry explores various scriptural references and theological insights related to this theme.

Biblical Foundations

1. Divine Justice and Retribution: The Bible frequently portrays God as a just judge who repays individuals according to their deeds. In the book of Psalms, it is written, "The LORD is known by the justice He brings; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands" (Psalm 9:16). This verse highlights the principle that the wicked often face consequences that are a direct result of their own actions, orchestrated by divine justice.

2. Proverbs and Wisdom Literature: The wisdom literature of the Bible often emphasizes the fate of the wicked. Proverbs 11:21 states, "Be assured that the wicked will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will escape" . This proverb reinforces the idea that punishment is an inevitable outcome for those who pursue wickedness, while the righteous are spared.

3. Prophetic Warnings: The prophets frequently warned of impending judgment upon nations and individuals due to their wickedness. In the book of Isaiah, the prophet declares, "Woe to the wicked; disaster is upon them! For they will be repaid with what their hands have done" (Isaiah 3:11). This prophetic utterance serves as a reminder of the certainty of divine retribution.

4. New Testament Teachings: The New Testament continues this theme, with the apostle Paul writing in Romans 1:18, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people who suppress the truth by their wickedness" . Here, Paul articulates the ongoing reality of God's judgment against wickedness, emphasizing its judicial nature.

Theological Insights

1. God's Sovereignty and Moral Order: The afflictions of the wicked are often seen as a manifestation of God's sovereign rule and the moral order He has established. God's justice is not arbitrary but is rooted in His holy nature and the moral laws He has set forth.

2. Purpose of Afflictions: While afflictions serve as a form of punishment, they can also function as a means of correction or a call to repentance. The afflictions of the wicked may serve to bring about a realization of sin and a turning back to God, as seen in the account of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).

3. Distinction Between Temporal and Eternal Judgment: It is important to distinguish between temporal afflictions and eternal judgment. While the wicked may experience afflictions in this life as a form of divine justice, the ultimate judgment is reserved for the afterlife, where eternal destinies are determined.

4. Role of Human Agency: Although God is the ultimate judge, human agency plays a role in the afflictions of the wicked. Individuals often bring about their own suffering through sinful choices, aligning with the biblical principle of sowing and reaping (Galatians 6:7).

Conclusion

The afflictions of the wicked, as judicially sent by God, serve as a testament to His justice and the moral order of the universe. Through scriptural teachings and theological reflection, this theme underscores the seriousness of sin and the certainty of divine retribution, while also offering a path to redemption through repentance and faith.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 21:17
How oft is the candle of the wicked put out! and how oft comes their destruction on them! God distributes sorrows in his anger.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 107:17
Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 30:15
Why cry you for your affliction? your sorrow is incurable for the multitude of your iniquity: because your sins were increased, I have done these things to you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Life of Mr. Thomas Hog.
... and if he had visited Mr. Hog often before, he ... been taught, and shall comply with
the wicked designs now ... cause, and shewed that our light afflictions which are ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of mr thomas.htm

The Barren Fig-Tree;
... not that any of his sermons, ministers, afflictions, judgments, or ... When I say to
the wicked, O wicked man, thou ... which are sent unto thee, how often would I ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the barren fig-tree.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... had received with her;* he then sent her back ... their own flesh and blood, and often
settled upon ... creditors of their liberty, and criminals judicially condemned. ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm