Introduction

Questioning injustice is a theme that resonates throughout the Bible, reflecting the human struggle to understand and confront the presence of evil and unfairness in the world. The Scriptures provide numerous examples of individuals who grappled with the apparent triumph of wickedness and the suffering of the righteous. This entry explores key biblical passages and figures that illustrate the tension between faith and the reality of injustice.

Old Testament Examples

1. Abraham's Plea for Sodom (Genesis 18:23-33): Abraham's intercession for Sodom is a profound example of questioning potential injustice. When God reveals His plan to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham boldly questions, "Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked?" (Genesis 18:23). Abraham's dialogue with God highlights the patriarch's concern for justice and righteousness, as he negotiates for the salvation of the city if righteous individuals can be found within it.

2. Job's Lament (Book of Job): The Book of Job is a seminal text on the theme of questioning injustice. Job, a righteous man, suffers immense loss and affliction, prompting him to question the justice of his plight. Job's friends insist that his suffering must be a result of sin, but Job maintains his innocence and demands an explanation from God. Job 21:7-9 captures his bewilderment: "Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power? Their homes are safe from fear; the rod of God is not upon them."

3. Habakkuk's Complaint (Habakkuk 1:2-4): The prophet Habakkuk voices his frustration with the prevalence of injustice and violence in Judah. He cries out, "How long, O LORD, must I call for help, but You do not listen, or cry out to You, 'Violence!' but You do not save?" (Habakkuk 1:2). Habakkuk's dialogue with God reveals a deep struggle to reconcile God's holiness with the apparent triumph of evil.

New Testament Insights

1. Jesus and the Pharisees (Matthew 23:23-28): Jesus frequently confronted the religious leaders of His day, challenging their hypocrisy and injustice. In Matthew 23, He denounces the Pharisees for neglecting "the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness" (Matthew 23:23). Jesus' teachings emphasize the importance of genuine righteousness and the pursuit of justice.

2. The Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8): Jesus tells the parable of a widow who persistently seeks justice from an unjust judge. The parable illustrates the value of perseverance in seeking justice and God's ultimate commitment to vindicating His people. Jesus concludes, "Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night?" (Luke 18:7).

3. Paul's Teachings on Justice (Romans 12:17-21): The Apostle Paul addresses the Christian response to injustice, urging believers not to repay evil for evil but to overcome evil with good. He writes, "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God's wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord'" (Romans 12:19). Paul's teachings encourage trust in God's ultimate justice and the practice of love and forgiveness.

Conclusion

The Bible presents a complex and nuanced view of questioning injustice, acknowledging the reality of evil while affirming God's sovereignty and righteousness. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, believers are encouraged to seek justice, trust in God's ultimate plan, and maintain faith amidst the challenges of a fallen world.