What Is Biblical Justice?Sample

Justice Reconciles

One of my favorite examples of reconciling justice is the story of Jacob and Esau.

Here was a man, Esau, who had every legitimate reason to seek revenge on his deceitful brother, Jacob, who tricked him out of his God-given birthright for a mere pot of soup (see Genesis 25:29-34).

Understandably, Jacob feared the worst. Can you imagine his relief when his big, intimidating brother embraced him, signaling a loving reunion instead of the bloodbath he expected (Genesis 33:1-20)? Esau accepted Jacob's peace offering and was joyful about reuniting with his lost brother. Esau overcame his hatred and chose forgiveness and mercy instead.

Reconciliation requires humility, repentance, and forgiveness from both parties. I can’t imagine that Esau, after losing his inheritance, reached this point on his own. He must have experienced a spiritual transformation, which brings us back to the humility brought about by God’s Spirit.

We must remember that God is at the center of reconciliation. He clearly instructs us to leave vengeance to Him (Romans 12:19), as He will ultimately repay all wrongs.

The most important aspect of God’s reconciliation is the everlasting peace brought about through Christ, the ultimate peacemaker (Romans 5:1). He enables us to make peace with our Creator and with one another. We can find healing from injustice, suffering, and sin, which will all vanish when Christ returns. Revelation 21:4 (ESV) proclaims, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more; neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Brother, isn’t this great news? We don’t have to avenge any wrongs ourselves; instead, we can reconcile with those who have wronged us, just like Jesus did with Peter after His resurrection (John 21:15-19). Out of our worst moments, He can create something beautiful and life-altering.

Prayer: Father, we pray for spiritual transformation, that we can forgive those who have wronged us, knowing that love ultimately conquers all, and that we can trust You will make right anything that needs addressing. Amen.

Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive and reach out to today? What is holding you back? Ask God to grant you His Spirit of forgiveness so you can reconcile today.