Injustice, as depicted in the Bible, refers to the violation of God's moral order and the mistreatment of individuals, often manifesting as oppression, unfairness, and the denial of rights. The Scriptures consistently condemn acts of injustice and call for righteousness and equity.

The Old Testament frequently addresses injustice, particularly in the context of social and economic oppression. The prophets were vocal critics of societal injustices. For instance, Isaiah denounces those who "enact unjust statutes and issue oppressive decrees" (Isaiah 10:1). Similarly, Amos condemns those who "trample the head of the poor into the dust of the earth and deny justice to the oppressed" (Amos 2:7). These passages highlight God's concern for the marginalized and His demand for justice.

The Mosaic Law provided specific guidelines to prevent injustice, emphasizing fair treatment and protection for the vulnerable, including widows, orphans, and foreigners (Exodus 22:21-24). The law also called for honest scales and measures, underscoring the importance of integrity in economic transactions (Leviticus 19:35-36).

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate standard of justice and righteousness. He challenges the religious leaders of His time, who often perpetuated injustice under the guise of piety. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for neglecting "the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness" . His ministry consistently uplifted the downtrodden and called for a radical reorientation towards love and justice.

The apostles also address injustice, urging believers to act justly and to advocate for those who suffer. James warns against favoritism and partiality, emphasizing that true religion involves caring for the afflicted and maintaining purity (James 1:27, 2:1-9).

Innocence

Innocence in the biblical context often refers to purity, blamelessness, and the absence of guilt. It is a state of being that aligns with God's holiness and righteousness. The Bible presents innocence as an ideal to be pursued and protected.

The concept of innocence is first introduced in the Genesis account of creation, where Adam and Eve are described as living in a state of innocence before the Fall. They were "naked and unashamed" (Genesis 2:25), symbolizing their purity and lack of guilt. However, their disobedience led to the loss of innocence and the entrance of sin into the world (Genesis 3).

Throughout the Scriptures, innocence is often associated with righteousness and integrity. Job, for example, is described as "blameless and upright" (Job 1:1), and he maintains his innocence despite severe trials and accusations. The Psalms frequently appeal to God as the defender of the innocent, as seen in Psalm 26:1, where David declares, "Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity" .

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the epitome of innocence. He lived a sinless life, fulfilling the law perfectly. Despite His innocence, He suffered unjustly, bearing the sins of humanity. Pilate, recognizing Jesus' innocence, declared, "I find no basis for a charge against Him" (John 18:38). Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection provide the means for believers to be restored to a state of innocence before God.

Believers are called to pursue innocence and purity, reflecting the character of Christ. Paul exhorts the Philippians to be "blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation" (Philippians 2:15). This pursuit involves a commitment to holiness and a rejection of sin, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

In summary, the Bible presents injustice as a grave sin that contradicts God's nature and commands, while innocence is portrayed as a desirable state of purity and righteousness, ultimately exemplified in the person of Jesus Christ.