Definition and Overview:
Violence and injustice are recurring themes in the Bible, often depicted as contrary to God's will and character. Violence refers to the use of physical force to harm others, while injustice involves the violation of rights or fairness. Both are seen as manifestations of sin and human fallenness, disrupting the peace and order intended by God.

Biblical Instances and Teachings:

1. The Pre-Flood World:
The early chapters of Genesis describe a world filled with violence, prompting God's judgment through the flood. Genesis 6:11 states, "Now the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and full of violence." This highlights the extent to which violence had permeated human society, leading to divine intervention.

2. The Prophets' Condemnation:
The prophets frequently denounced violence and injustice among the people of Israel. For instance, Isaiah 59:6-8 declares, "Their cobwebs cannot be made into clothing, and they cannot cover themselves with their works. Their deeds are sinful deeds, and acts of violence are in their hands. Their feet run to evil; they are swift to shed innocent blood. Their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; ruin and destruction lie in their wake. The way of peace they have not known, and there is no justice in their tracks. They have turned them into crooked paths; no one who treads on them will know peace."

3. The Psalms and Wisdom Literature:
The Psalms often cry out against violence and injustice, seeking God's intervention. Psalm 11:5 states, "The LORD tests the righteous and the wicked; His soul hates the lover of violence." Similarly, Proverbs 13:2 warns, "From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good things, but the desire of the faithless is violence."

4. Jesus' Teachings:
Jesus Christ, in His earthly ministry, emphasized peace and justice. In the Sermon on the Mount, He taught, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). Jesus' life and teachings consistently opposed violence, advocating for love, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

5. The Apostolic Writings:
The New Testament epistles continue to address issues of violence and injustice. Romans 12:17-19 advises, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. 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.'"

Theological Implications:

1. God's Justice and Righteousness:
The Bible portrays God as a just and righteous judge who abhors violence and injustice. His laws, as given in the Old Testament, were designed to promote justice and protect the vulnerable, such as widows, orphans, and foreigners (Deuteronomy 10:18).

2. Human Responsibility:
Believers are called to reflect God's character by pursuing justice and peace. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this calling: "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?"

3. Eschatological Hope:
The Bible promises a future where violence and injustice will be eradicated. Revelation 21:4 offers hope: "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."

Practical Application:
Christians are encouraged to actively oppose violence and injustice in their communities, embodying the principles of love and justice taught by Christ. This involves advocating for the oppressed, promoting peace, and living out the gospel's transformative power in a broken world.