The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

JUSTICE

Zephaniah began this chapter describing the city of Jerusalem. God’s image bearers — living inside the walls of God’s city — continued to reject God’s word. An oppressing and rebellious metropolis, the corruption within this city knew no bounds. Zephaniah described the officials and rulers as bloodthirsty animals; the prophets and priests he labeled treacherous and perverse (vv. 3 – 4).

However, the Lord of the city remained righteous, having never done wrong. He had no trouble meeting the standard of justice he maintained. In fact, the prophet portrayed each dawn as fresh evidence of the Lord’s faithfulness (v. 5).

As the pages of the Gospels reveal, Jesus puts this perfect justice on display, even declaring, “I always do what pleases [the Father]” (Jn 8:29). Jesus always did what was right. Therefore, he proved to be the only one who could rightly judge the world. God’s ways are perfect, and in his grace he provides a way, through Jesus, for people to come to him.

Jesus, thank you for providing a way for me to be reconciled to God. I praise you for your perfection, your obedience, your holiness and your righteousness. Amen.