Tag Archives: Christ-like Justice

Culture, Devotions, Life

Tension of Justice

John 5:26-30 “For just as the Father has life in Himself, even so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself; and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man. “Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.

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In the world today, I sense a tension between the implementation of Justice as man sees it and justice as demanded by a God. One a man-centered approach and the other a God-centered approach.  The vision of the current man-centered justice is one of bringing a utopia through policies.  To see government as the savior to all the world.  They would legislate morality, through laws and regulations.

The God-centered approach sees Jesus as savior.  Jesus bringing heaven to earth when He returns. At His return, Christ will restore all things and execute perfect justice. In the meantime, I will express God’s love and justice by showing kindness and mercy to those who are less fortunate.  I will be the hands and feet of Jesus to my little world around me.

Devotions, Life

Revenge does not belong to me.

Matthew 5:38-42 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.  Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

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Revenge is an attitude the seems to permeate our culture. When we feel put upon, or canceled we quickly fall into response mode.  We want to react in to wreak vengeance upon the offender.  A simple sarcastic comment slips out of our lips or runs through our minds. Even occasionally even the most devout Christian has visions of due justice.  We want people to get exactly what they deserve.

God tells us we are not to seek revenge but submit these feelings to God and respond His way.  Jesus challenges His people to choose a different behavior when we are confronted with anger and want revenge. I must resist and convert my feelings of anger into attitudes of positive action.

Devotions

Forgiveness as Justice

1 Peter 3:8-9 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 

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The closer the relationship and the stronger the offense, the more we MUST walk in forgiveness, compassion, and love. When we resist the urge to pay back evil for evil, God rewards with blessings.  Going the extra mile in Godly responses brings life instead of death.  Responding the way Jesus would promises blessings on you that will pour over on your household, relationships, marriage, in your work life, and in your church. 

Couching our lives to be more Christ-like is Justice.  Reacting to insults or offenses is a critical place to begin walking out our faith.  Imagine if your reputation at home, work, or your neighborhood was that of understanding, love, kindness, compassion, and humility.  People would trust and respect you more.  These characteristics open doors to all kinds of blessings in your life.