Topical Encyclopedia Divine InterventionDivine intervention refers to the direct and active involvement of God in the affairs of the world, particularly in the lives of individuals or nations. This concept is central to the biblical narrative, where God is depicted as sovereign and actively engaged in His creation. Divine intervention can manifest in various forms, including miracles, guidance, protection, and judgment. One of the most prominent examples of divine intervention is the Exodus, where God delivers the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. In Exodus 14:21-22 , it is recorded, "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on their right and on their left." This miraculous event underscores God's power and His commitment to His covenant people. In the New Testament, divine intervention is vividly illustrated in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. The incarnation itself is a profound act of divine intervention, as God enters human history in the person of Jesus. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus performs numerous miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, and calming storms, demonstrating His divine authority and compassion. In John 11:43-44 , Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, saying, "Lazarus, come out!" The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped in strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, "Unwrap him and let him go." Justice Justice, as portrayed in the Bible, is an essential attribute of God's character and a fundamental principle of His kingdom. Biblical justice involves the fair and equitable treatment of individuals, the upholding of righteousness, and the punishment of wrongdoing. God's justice is both retributive and restorative, aiming to correct wrongs and restore relationships. The Old Testament law, given to the Israelites, reflects God's standard of justice. In Deuteronomy 16:20 , the command is clear: "Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live, and you may possess the land the LORD your God is giving you." This directive emphasizes the importance of justice in maintaining social order and covenantal blessings. The prophets frequently called Israel back to justice, condemning social injustices and calling for repentance. In Micah 6:8 , the prophet 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, mercy, and humility. In the New Testament, justice is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus satisfies the demands of divine justice, offering redemption and reconciliation to humanity. Romans 3:25-26 states, "God presented Him as the atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand. He did this to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and to justify the one who has faith in Jesus." Ultimately, the Bible assures believers of a future where God's perfect justice will be fully realized. Revelation 21:4 promises, "He 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 underscores the certainty of divine justice and the restoration of all things under God's righteous rule. |