Corruption

Corruption, in the biblical context, refers to the moral decay and deviation from God's righteous standards. It is often associated with dishonesty, bribery, and the perversion of justice. The Bible frequently addresses corruption as a sin that leads to societal decay and divine judgment.

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of corruption. In Genesis 6:11-12, the earth is described as being "corrupt in the sight of God" before the flood, highlighting the widespread moral decay that prompted divine intervention. The prophet Isaiah condemns the leaders of Israel for their corrupt practices, stating, "Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves. They all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the fatherless, and the plea of the widow never comes before them" (Isaiah 1:23).

In the New Testament, corruption is addressed as a heart issue that defiles a person. Jesus warns against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who appear righteous outwardly but are inwardly corrupt (Matthew 23:27-28). The Apostle Paul admonishes believers to avoid corrupt practices, urging them to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires" (Ephesians 4:22).

Corruption is not only a personal sin but also a societal ill that affects governance and justice. Proverbs 29:4 states, "By justice a king gives stability to the land, but a man who exacts tribute demolishes it" . This highlights the destructive impact of corruption on leadership and society.

Justice

Justice, in the biblical sense, is rooted in the character of God, who is described as just and righteous. It involves fairness, equity, and the upholding of moral and legal standards. Justice is a central theme throughout Scripture, reflecting God's desire for order and righteousness in human relationships and society.

The Old Testament law emphasizes justice as a fundamental principle. Deuteronomy 16:20 commands, "Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live, and you may possess the land the LORD your God is giving you" . This underscores the importance of justice in maintaining covenantal blessings and societal well-being.

The prophets frequently call for justice, particularly for the marginalized and oppressed. Micah 6:8 famously declares, "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?" . This verse encapsulates the biblical mandate for justice as an expression of true faith and devotion to God.

In the New Testament, justice is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus satisfies divine justice and offers redemption to humanity. Believers are called to reflect God's justice in their lives, as seen in James 1:27: "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world" .

The Bible envisions a future where perfect justice will be established. Revelation 21:4-5 promises a new creation where God will "wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away" . This eschatological hope motivates believers to pursue justice in the present, anticipating the ultimate fulfillment of God's righteous kingdom.