Throughout the Bible, we see a consistent call for justice and the promotion of freedom, both in relation to our relationship with God and our interactions with one another. The pairing of Justice and Freedom seems an appropriate arena in which to reflect here on the day we celebrated our nations’ Independence.
Justice, in the biblical context, goes beyond mere legal or punitive actions. It embodies fairness, righteousness, and the restoration of right relationships. The concept of justice in the Bible is deeply rooted in God’s character and is seen as a fundamental aspect of His nature. We read in Psalm 89:14, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.” But biblical justice has expectations for those who “have more.” It encompasses a concern for the marginalized, oppressed, and vulnerable. The Hebrew prophets, such as Isaiah and Amos, frequently spoke out against injustice and called for the defense of the rights of the poor, the widow, and the orphan. The prophet Micah summarized this call for justice beautifully when he said, “You have been told, O mortal, what is good, and what the LORD requires of you: Only to do justice and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).
Freedom is also central to the biblical narrative. From the Exodus story, where God liberated the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, to the teachings of Jesus, which emphasized freedom from sin and bondage, the Bible presents freedom as a gift from God. Galatians 5:1 declares, “For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” This freedom encompasses both a spiritual liberation from the power of sin and a call to live freed from sin’s lure, guided by the principles of love and righteousness.
However, the biblical understanding of freedom is not license or an excuse for self-centeredness. It is not the freedom to do whatever we please without regard for others or God’s commands. Instead, true biblical freedom is intertwined with responsibility and accountability. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, clarifies this by stating, “For you were called for freedom, brothers. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love” (Galatians 5:13).
Ultimately, the biblical relationships of justice and freedom reveal a holistic view of human flourishing. Justice is the foundation that ensures the well-being and dignity of all individuals, while freedom enables us to live in harmony with God’s purposes and love one another. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody these principles, seeking justice for those on the margins and extending the liberating message of Christ to all. In this, we participate in God’s redemptive work in the world and contribute to the establishment of a just and free society.
The gospel promises that the Holy Spirit will teach us everything and remind us of all that Jesus has commanded. We are people that need to be reminded to ever seek justice so that all may be free. Come Holy Spirit and help us to be mindful of what God requires and then to walk humbly on that road.
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