A judicial inquiry in the biblical context refers to the process of investigation and decision-making by appointed leaders or judges to resolve disputes, administer justice, and uphold the law as given by God. This process is deeply rooted in the legal and moral framework established in the Scriptures, where justice is a central theme.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the concept of judicial inquiry is first seen in the establishment of judges and leaders to govern the people of Israel. Moses, under the guidance of his father-in-law Jethro, appointed capable men to serve as judges over the people to handle disputes and administer justice (Exodus 18:13-26). This system was designed to ensure that the people received fair and timely judgments, with Moses handling the most difficult cases.

The role of judges was further formalized in Deuteronomy, where God commanded the appointment of judges and officials in every town to judge the people fairly. Deuteronomy 16:18-20 states, "Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the LORD your God is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly. Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. Pursue justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you."

The judicial process was to be conducted with integrity, impartiality, and adherence to God's laws. Judges were to investigate thoroughly, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:18 : "The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother, then you must do to him as he intended to do to his brother. You must purge the evil from among you."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the principles of justice and fair inquiry continue to be emphasized. Jesus Himself addressed issues of justice and judgment, often criticizing the Pharisees and religious leaders for their hypocrisy and failure to administer true justice (Matthew 23:23). The early church also faced disputes that required judicial inquiry, as seen in Acts 15, where the apostles and elders gathered in Jerusalem to resolve the issue of Gentile circumcision.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, often addressed matters of justice and encouraged believers to resolve disputes within the church rather than taking them to secular courts. In 1 Corinthians 6:1-6 , Paul admonishes the Corinthians for taking their disputes before unbelievers, urging them instead to appoint wise men within the church to judge such matters.

Principles of Judicial Inquiry

1. Impartiality and Fairness: Judges and leaders are called to be impartial, not showing favoritism or accepting bribes, as these corrupt justice (Deuteronomy 16:19).

2. Thorough Investigation: A careful and thorough investigation is essential to ensure that justice is served and false accusations are exposed (Deuteronomy 19:18).

3. Adherence to God's Law: Judicial decisions must align with the moral and legal standards set forth in Scripture, reflecting God's righteousness and justice.

4. Community Involvement: The involvement of the community in the judicial process, as seen in the appointment of judges from among the people, ensures accountability and transparency.

5. Restoration and Reconciliation: The ultimate goal of judicial inquiry is not only to punish wrongdoing but also to restore relationships and maintain peace within the community.

Judicial inquiry, as outlined in the Bible, serves as a model for justice that is rooted in divine law, emphasizing the importance of integrity, fairness, and the pursuit of righteousness in all legal matters.