The concept of "perverting what is right" is a significant theme in the Bible, reflecting the distortion or corruption of God's established order and moral law. This entry explores the biblical understanding of perversion in the context of righteousness, justice, and truth.

Biblical Definition and Context

In the Bible, to pervert is to twist, distort, or corrupt something from its intended purpose or design. This can apply to justice, truth, and moral conduct. The Hebrew word often translated as "pervert" is עָוַת (avath), which means to bend or make crooked. In the New Testament, the Greek word διαστρέφω (diastrephō) is used, meaning to distort or turn aside.

Scriptural References

1. Perverting Justice: The Bible frequently warns against the perversion of justice, emphasizing the importance of fairness and integrity. In Deuteronomy 16:19, it is written, "Do not deny 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." This verse underscores the corrupting influence of bribery and partiality, which can lead to the perversion of justice.

2. Perverting the Word of God: The distortion of God's Word is another form of perversion addressed in Scripture. In Galatians 1:7, Paul warns against those who are "trying to distort the gospel of Christ." This highlights the danger of altering the message of the Gospel, leading believers astray from the truth.

3. Moral Perversion: The Bible also speaks against moral perversion, which involves deviating from God's commandments and moral standards. In Isaiah 5:20, the prophet declares, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who turn darkness into light and light into darkness, who replace bitter with sweet and sweet with bitter." This passage condemns the inversion of moral values, which leads to societal decay.

4. Perverting the Way of the Lord: In Acts 13:10, Paul confronts Elymas the sorcerer, saying, "You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right. You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the straight ways of the Lord?" This rebuke highlights the spiritual danger of leading others away from the path of righteousness.

Theological Implications

Perverting what is right is fundamentally an act of rebellion against God. It reflects a heart that is turned away from divine truth and justice. The Bible consistently calls believers to uphold righteousness and to resist the temptation to distort God's commands for personal gain or societal approval.

Practical Application

Believers are called to be vigilant against the perversion of justice, truth, and morality in their own lives and communities. This involves a commitment to biblical principles, discernment in the face of false teachings, and a dedication to living out the truth of the Gospel. As followers of Christ, Christians are encouraged to "hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught" (Titus 1:9) and to "walk in the light, as He is in the light" (1 John 1:7).

Conclusion

While the Bible does not shy away from addressing the reality of perversion, it also offers hope through the transformative power of the Gospel. By aligning with God's truth and righteousness, believers can resist the perversion of what is right and reflect the character of Christ in a fallen world.