In the previous post we saw how Hans Nielsen Hauge brought the Word to the people. He had a special emphasis on showing how the Word gave direction for every area of life. And now we have a whole section in the sphere of government, especially judges and justices.
“Consider what you are doing, for you do not judge for man, but for the LORD, who is with you in the matter of judgment. And now, may the terror [fear] of the Lord be on you. Watch what you do, for there is no injustice or partiality or taking bribes with the LORD our God” (2 Chr 19:6-7).
Wow! Wouldn’t that be a great verse to have in every courtroom in the world. Not only that but for every judge to have read this out loud before every course case.
I remember reading a case about a painting theft that took place in Europe. It was a classic painting and a very important one historically (which Europeans in general have such a great sense for history). And though the thieves were caught red-handed, for some reason there was a problem in how the case was handled. The thieves were released on a small technicality.
It’s frustrating for the police officers, the investigators, and more. Something so small happens and because of a technicality in the law, a guilty person is released. It happens all over the world.
But what about justice? What about ruling according to the ways of God?
The Scriptures continue that judges of the people were for “deciding the LORD”s will and for settling disputes of the residents” (2 Chr 19:8). Our nations and our laws have all become so technical that obvious thieves can get away with their crimes. This is how legalism can destroy us all.
But even if someone is released or has to go on a technicality, there is still always justice. Because they will face God.
To the judges he says this:
“In the fear of the LORD, with integrity, and with a whole heart, you are to do the following…you are to warn them, so that they will not incur guilt before the LORD and wrath will not come on you and your brothers. Do this, and you will not incur guilt” (2 Chr 19:9-10).
The judges were to walk in integrity. And they were also to warn the people that they would one day face God. If they didn’t, the judges themselves would incur guilt. Interesting.
But how different our world would be if judges and rules and leaders would rule with the fear of the Lord and on the basis of the Word. That people who committed obvious crimes would be held accountable. That no one could be accused on the basis of one witness but on several witnesses. That their would be righteousness and justice in the land.
