Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live, and you may possess the land that the LORD your God is giving you. Pursue justice, and justice aloneThe Hebrew word for "pursue" is "רָדַף" (radaph), which conveys a sense of active, relentless pursuit. This is not a passive suggestion but a command to actively seek out justice in all aspects of life. The repetition of "justice" (צֶדֶק, tzedek) emphasizes its importance and purity. In the ancient Near Eastern context, justice was foundational to societal stability and was seen as a divine attribute. The call to pursue justice "alone" underscores the exclusivity and priority of this pursuit over other interests or desires. It reflects God's character, as He is often described as a just and righteous judge throughout Scripture (e.g., Psalm 9:8). so that you may live and you may possess the land the LORD your God is giving you Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites. 2. Israelites The chosen people of God, receiving the law as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. 3. Promised Land The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 4. The LORD (Yahweh) The covenant God of Israel, who commands His people to pursue justice. 5. Canaan The geographical region that the Israelites are to inherit, contingent upon their obedience to God's laws. Teaching Points The Call to JusticeGod commands His people to actively pursue justice, indicating that it is not a passive attribute but an active pursuit. Justice as a Foundation for Life The promise of life and possession of the land is contingent upon the pursuit of justice, showing its foundational role in God's covenant. Justice in Community Justice is not only a personal virtue but a communal responsibility, impacting the entire society. Biblical Justice vs. Worldly Justice Biblical justice is rooted in God's character and law, differing from secular or cultural definitions of justice. Justice and Righteousness The Hebrew word for justice, (tzedek), is closely related to righteousness, indicating that true justice aligns with God's righteous standards. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the command to "pursue justice" in Deuteronomy 16:20 relate to the overall covenant relationship between God and Israel?2. In what ways can we actively pursue justice in our communities today, reflecting the biblical standard? 3. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the call to justice found in Deuteronomy 16:20? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our pursuit of justice aligns with God's definition rather than cultural or personal biases? 5. How does the promise of life and possession of the land in Deuteronomy 16:20 connect to the blessings and responsibilities of being part of God's kingdom today? Connections to Other Scriptures Micah 6:8This verse emphasizes the requirement to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, echoing the call to pursue justice. Amos 5:24 The prophet Amos calls for justice to roll on like a river, highlighting the importance of justice in the life of God's people. Matthew 23:23 Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness, underscoring the weightier matters of the law. Isaiah 1:17 This verse calls for learning to do right, seeking justice, and defending the oppressed, aligning with the pursuit of justice. Proverbs 21:3 It states that doing what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice, reinforcing the priority of justice.
People Levites, MosesPlaces Beth-baal-peor, EgyptTopics Alone, Altogether, Follow, Gives, Giveth, Giving, Guide, Hast, Heritage, Inherit, Justice, Livest, Mayest, Perfect, Possess, Possessed, Pursue, RighteousnessDictionary of Bible Themes Deuteronomy 16:20 1075 God, justice of 5238 bribery Library The Age of the Apostles (Ad 33-100)The beginning of the Christian Church is reckoned from the great day on which the Holy Ghost came down, according as our Lord had promised to His Apostles. At that time, "Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven," were gathered together at Jerusalem, to keep the Feast of Pentecost (or Feast of Weeks), which was one of the three holy seasons at which God required His people to appear before Him in the place which He had chosen (Deuteronomy xvi. 16). Many of these devout men there converted … J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation Whether Six Daughters are Fittingly Assigned to Gluttony? Whether Pride Should be Reckoned a Capital vice? The Passing and the Permanent Obedience The Second Commandment Appeal to the Christian Women of the South The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Deuteronomy Links Deuteronomy 16:20 NIVDeuteronomy 16:20 NLT Deuteronomy 16:20 ESV Deuteronomy 16:20 NASB Deuteronomy 16:20 KJV Deuteronomy 16:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |