Innocence

In the biblical context, innocence is often associated with purity, blamelessness, and a state of being free from sin or guilt. The concept of innocence is first introduced in the account of creation, where Adam and Eve lived in a state of innocence in the Garden of Eden before the Fall (Genesis 2-3). Their disobedience led to the loss of innocence, introducing sin and its consequences into the world.

Innocence is frequently linked with children in Scripture, symbolizing purity and a lack of guile. Jesus emphasized the importance of childlike innocence when He said, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3). This statement underscores the value of humility and purity of heart in the eyes of God.

The Bible also speaks of innocence in the context of moral and ethical behavior. For instance, Psalm 24:3-4 asks, "Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully" . Here, innocence is associated with righteousness and integrity.

Innocence is not only a personal attribute but also a legal concept in biblical law. The Mosaic Law provided protections for the innocent, ensuring that justice was served and that the innocent were not wrongfully punished (Exodus 23:7). The principle of protecting the innocent is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reflecting God's character as a just and righteous judge.

Justice

Justice, in the biblical sense, is rooted in the character of God, who is described as just and righteous. The Bible portrays God as the ultimate judge who administers justice with fairness and impartiality. Deuteronomy 32:4 declares, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He" .

The concept of justice is integral to the law given to Israel. The Mosaic Law provided a framework for social justice, emphasizing fairness, equity, and the protection of the vulnerable. Leviticus 19:15 instructs, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly" . This command highlights the importance of impartiality and fairness in judicial proceedings.

Justice is also a key theme in the prophetic writings, where the prophets often called out the injustices of their time and urged the people to return to God's standards. Micah 6:8 famously summarizes God's requirements: "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 satisfied the demands of divine justice, offering redemption and forgiveness to humanity. Romans 3:25-26 explains, "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" .

The call to justice extends to the followers of Christ, who are urged to reflect God's justice in their lives. James 1:27 defines pure and undefiled religion as caring for orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself unstained by the world, emphasizing the practical outworking of justice in the life of a believer.