Topical Encyclopedia The themes of protection and justice are woven throughout the biblical narrative, reflecting God's covenantal relationship with His people. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, Scripture consistently portrays God as a protector and just judge, ensuring the safety and righteousness of His followers.Old Testament Foundations In the Old Testament, God's protection is often depicted through His covenant with Israel. In Genesis 15:1, God reassures Abram, saying, "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward." This promise of protection is a recurring theme, as God shields His people from their enemies and provides for their needs. The Psalms frequently highlight God's protective nature. Psalm 91:1-2 declares, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" This imagery of God as a refuge and fortress underscores His role as a divine protector. Justice, too, is a central theme in the Old Testament. The Law given to Moses emphasizes justice as a reflection of God's character. Deuteronomy 16:20 commands, "Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live, and you may possess the land the LORD your God is giving you." God's justice is not only a standard for His people but also a promise that He will act justly on their behalf. Prophetic Assurance The prophets often spoke of God's justice and protection, especially in times of national crisis. Isaiah 41:10 offers comfort: "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." This assurance is a reminder of God's unwavering commitment to His people. Jeremiah 23:5-6 prophesies the coming of a righteous Branch from David's line, who will execute justice and righteousness in the land. This messianic promise points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's justice through Jesus Christ. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, Jesus embodies God's protection and justice. He is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11), providing ultimate protection through His sacrificial death and resurrection. Jesus' teachings also emphasize justice, as seen in the Beatitudes: "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6). The apostle Paul reiterates God's protective nature in Romans 8:31, stating, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" This rhetorical question underscores the assurance of divine protection for believers. Eschatological Hope The Bible concludes with the promise of ultimate justice and protection in the eschatological hope found in Revelation. Revelation 21:4-5 describes a future where God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more death or suffering. This vision of a new heaven and new earth is the culmination of God's protective and just nature, where His people will dwell securely forever. Throughout Scripture, the themes of protection and justice for God's people are consistently affirmed, reflecting His covenantal faithfulness and sovereign care. Subtopics Protection is Afforded to Returning Sinners Protection is Afforded to The Church Protection is Afforded to The Oppressed Protection is Afforded to The Perfect in Heart Protection is Afforded to The Poor Protection is Afforded to Those Who Hearken to God Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in all Dangers Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in all Places Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Calamities Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Death Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Defeating the Counsels of Enemies Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Defending Them Against Their Enemies Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Their Feet Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them from Evil Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them from Falling Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them from Temptation Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Keeping Them in the Way Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Persecution Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Preserving Them Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Providing a Refuge for Them Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Sleep Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Strengthening Them Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Temptation Protection is Vouchsafed to Saints in Upholding Them Protection of God Is: Effectual Protection of God Is: Encouraging Protection of God Is: Indispensable Protection of God Is: Often Afforded Through Means Inadequate in Themselves Protection of God Is: Perpetual Protection of God Is: Seasonable Protection of God Is: Unfailing Protection of God Is: Uninterrupted Protection: God is Able to Afford Protection: God is Faithful to Afford Protection: Not to be Found in Horses Protection: Not to be Found in Hosts Protection: Not to be Found in Idols Protection: Not to be Found in Man Protection: Not to be Found in Riches Protection: Saints: Acknowledge God As Their Protection: Saints: Praise God For Protection: Withdrawn from The: Backsliding Protection: Withdrawn from The: Disobedient Protection: Withdrawn from The: Obstinately Impenitent Protection: Withdrawn from The: Presumptuous Protection: Withdrawn from The: Unbelieving Related Terms |