Introduction:
Corruption, defined as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain, is a theme addressed throughout the Bible. The Scriptures consistently condemn corrupt practices and call for integrity, justice, and righteousness. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that serve as a rebuke to corruption, emphasizing the moral and spiritual decay it causes and the divine judgment it incurs.

Old Testament Examples and Teachings:
The Old Testament is replete with instances where God rebukes individuals and nations for corruption. The prophets, in particular, were vocal in their denunciation of corrupt practices.

1. Prophet Isaiah: Isaiah speaks against the leaders of Israel for their corrupt practices. In Isaiah 1:23 , he declares, "Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves. They all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the fatherless, and the widow’s case never comes before them." This verse highlights the leaders' failure to uphold justice and protect the vulnerable, a common theme in the prophetic rebuke of corruption.

2. Prophet Micah: Micah also condemns the corruption of leaders and prophets. In Micah 3:11 , he states, "Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets practice divination for money. Yet they lean upon the LORD, saying, 'Is not the LORD among us? No disaster will come upon us.'" This passage underscores the hypocrisy and false security of those who engage in corrupt practices while claiming divine favor.

3. Prophet Amos: Amos is another prophet who speaks out against corruption, particularly in the context of social injustice. In Amos 5:12 , he proclaims, "For I know your transgressions are many and your sins are numerous. You oppress the righteous, taking bribes and depriving the poor of justice at the gates." Amos highlights the systemic nature of corruption and its impact on society's most vulnerable.

New Testament Teachings:
The New Testament continues the theme of rebuking corruption, emphasizing the need for integrity and righteousness in the lives of believers.

1. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus Himself rebukes the corrupt practices of the religious leaders of His time. In Matthew 23:25 , He says, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence." Jesus condemns the outward appearance of righteousness that masks inner corruption and greed.

2. Apostle Paul: Paul addresses corruption in his epistles, urging believers to live lives of integrity. In 1 Timothy 6:10 , he warns, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." Paul identifies the love of money as a driving force behind corrupt behavior and a danger to one's spiritual well-being.

3. Apostle James: James also speaks against corruption, particularly in the context of economic injustice. In James 5:4 , he writes, "Look, the wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of Hosts." James highlights the moral responsibility of employers to treat their workers justly and the divine attention to cries of injustice.

Divine Judgment and Call to Repentance:
The Bible consistently warns of divine judgment against corruption. In Proverbs 11:1 , it is written, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This proverb underscores God's disdain for dishonest practices and His pleasure in fairness and integrity.

The call to repentance is a recurring theme in the biblical rebuke of corruption. In 2 Chronicles 7:14 , God promises, "If My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land." This verse offers hope and restoration for those who turn away from corrupt practices and seek God's forgiveness.

Conclusion:
The Bible's rebuke of corruption is clear and unequivocal. It calls for a life of integrity, justice, and righteousness, warning of the spiritual and societal decay that corruption brings. Through the teachings of the prophets, Jesus, and the apostles, Scripture provides a timeless message against the evils of corruption and a call to live in accordance with God's righteous standards.