Topical Encyclopedia TruthIn the biblical context, truth is a fundamental attribute of God and is closely associated with His character and His Word. The Bible presents truth as absolute, unchanging, and eternal, reflecting the nature of God Himself. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for truth, "emet," conveys notions of firmness, stability, and faithfulness. In the New Testament, the Greek word "aletheia" is used, emphasizing reality and sincerity. God is described as the God of truth. In Deuteronomy 32:4, it is declared, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He." This verse underscores the perfection and reliability of God's nature, affirming that His truth is integral to His justice. The Word of God is also identified as truth. Psalm 119:160 states, "The entirety of Your word is truth, and all Your righteous judgments endure forever." This highlights the belief that Scripture is the ultimate source of truth, providing guidance and wisdom for righteous living. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the embodiment of truth. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." This statement affirms that truth is not merely a concept but is personified in Christ, who reveals the Father and provides the path to eternal life. The Holy Spirit is also associated with truth, guiding believers into all truth. In John 16:13, Jesus promises, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth." The Spirit's role is to illuminate the truth of God's Word and apply it to the hearts of believers. Justice Justice in the Bible is deeply rooted in the character of God and His righteous standards. It involves the fair and equitable treatment of individuals, reflecting God's moral order. The Hebrew word for justice, "mishpat," encompasses judgment, rights, and rectitude, while the Greek word "dikaiosyne" in the New Testament conveys righteousness and justice. God is portrayed as the ultimate judge who executes justice with impartiality. Psalm 9:7-8 declares, "But the LORD abides forever; He has established His throne for judgment. He judges the world with justice; He governs the people with equity." This passage emphasizes God's sovereign authority and His commitment to uphold justice. The Bible calls for justice in human relationships, particularly in the treatment of the vulnerable and oppressed. Micah 6:8 succinctly captures this mandate: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse highlights the ethical responsibility of individuals to pursue justice and mercy in their interactions with others. Justice is also a key theme in the teachings of Jesus. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus emphasizes the importance of righteousness and justice in the lives of His followers. Matthew 5:6 states, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." This beatitude underscores the desire for justice as a hallmark of the kingdom of God. The eschatological hope of justice is a recurring theme in Scripture, with the promise that God will ultimately establish His perfect justice. Revelation 21:4-5 offers a vision of this future reality: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away. And the One seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.'" This passage assures believers of the coming restoration and the fulfillment of God's just purposes. In summary, truth and justice are intertwined attributes of God, reflected in His Word, His Son, and His Spirit. They are foundational to the Christian faith, guiding believers in their relationship with God and with one another. |