Love and Justice in the Christian Congregation - A LAW THAT PROMOTES JUSTICE

"Justice," as used in the Bible, basically means to do what God considers to be right to do so without partiality. Why can we say that the law of the Christ promotes justice?

First, consider how Jesus' actions revealed his sense of justice. In his day, the Jewish religious leaders hated non-Jews, despised common Jews, and disrespected women, Jesus, however, was fair and impartial in dealing with all. He accepted non-Jews who approached him in faith.  (Matthew 8":5-10, 13)  He preached without prejudice to all, rich and poor.  (Matthew 11:5; Luke 19:2, 9)  He was never harsh or abusive in his treatment of women. On the contrary, he was respectful and kind to women, including those whom others viewed with scorn. - LUKE 7:37-39, 44-50.

Lessons:  We can imitate Jesus by dealing impartially with others and preaching to all who are willing to listen-regardless of their social or religious background. Christian men follow his example by treating women with respect. When we do such things, we are obeying the law of the Christ. 

Second, consider what Jesus taught about justice. He taught principles that would help his followers to treat others fairly. Think, for example, about the Golden Rule.  (Matthew 7:12)   We all want  to be treated fairly.  Therefore,we should behave fairly towards others. If we do, they may be moved to treat us with fairness. But what if we have been treated unjustly?  Jesus also taught his followers to trust that Jehovah will "cause justice to be done for [those] who cry out to him day and night." (Luke 18:6, 7)  That statement is, in effect,  a promise: Our just God is aware of the trials we are facing these days, and he will cause justice to be done for us in his due time. - 2 THESSALONIANS 1:6.

Lessons: When we follow the principles that Jesus taught, we will treat others in a just way. And if we have been a victim of injustice in Satan's world, we can comfort in knowing that Jehovah will cause justice to be done for us. 

Next time: Love and Justice in the Christian Congregation - HOW SHOULD THOSE IN AUTHORITY TREAT OTHERS?

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