True Wisdom – James 3:13-18
25. True Wisdom seeks justice for the oppressed.
Psalm 103:1-6; Psalm 146:7
God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment: “How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” (Psalm 82:1-4)
Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. (Proverbs 31:9)
Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause. (Isaiah 1:17)
The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. (Psalm 103:6)
Study it Out
- Why is it not enough to mentally agree with God’s ideas of justice without acting on behalf of those in need? How does James clarify this point when he discusses true faith that acts versus a simple head knowledge?
- While we are commanded to seek justice for all who are oppressed, what two groups of people are highlighted in these passages? Prayerfully consider how you can take an active role in seeking justice for those who are being oppressed.