Trials, Legal – Injustice, Justice and Christ Our Advocate

The trial of Jesus exposes how easily justice can be corrupted – and how God works through injustice to accomplish salvation. These principles apply both in the courtroom and in everyday life.

The Trial of Jesus

The official trial of Jesus was rigged. When He exposed the religious leaders’ double standards and lack of Godly authority, they became jealous. They had Him arrested and, wanting a guilty verdict, broke their own laws by using knowingly false evidence to secure the verdict they wanted (Mk 14:55-59). Although falsely accused, Jesus did not reply to any of the charges brought against Him (Mt 27:12-14).

“He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth” – Isaiah 53:7

The two Roman-appointed authorities who had the authority to permit an execution examined the evidence and declared Jesus “not guilty”, but under pressure from the religious leaders – who incited the crowd – they reluctantly granted permission (Lk 23:14-15,22).

Jesus went through an unfair trial and an unfair sentence on our behalf, so that we would not have to face a fair trial and receive the just punishment for our sin – for ‘the soul that sins will die’ (Ezek 18:4,20; Rom 6:23). Though He was completely innocent, He was counted guilty in our place, taking upon Himself the penalty we had earned. The judgement we deserved fell on Him, and the righteousness He deserved is now offered to us. What was meant to silence and destroy Him became the very means of our salvation: the innocent One paid the debt of the guilty, so that all who trust in Him can stand forgiven before God.

Justice and Fairness

In any court of law, as in general life, principles of justice and fairness should be upheld, mindful that each person has rights. Manipulation, pressure, the opinion and fear of others can cause a compromise on truth.

“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy” – Proverbs 31:9

The Bible counsels that an opinion may seem right until the other side is heard – don’t prejudge before knowing both sides of the story (Prov 18:13,17).

Believers and the Courts

Jesus promised that when we are summoned to appear before a court because of our faith and consistent Christian lifestyle (not because of our wrong actions) we will be given the words to say in our defence (Mk 13:11; Lk 21:12-19; 1 Pet 4:15).

Believers should not take a case against a fellow believer to the secular courts. Rather, disputes and differences should be settled inside the church structure where the Holy Spirit and the ‘mind of Christ’ can provide wisdom (1 Cor 6:1-8).

Sometimes our greatest opponents come, surprisingly, from those who should be on the same team and in agreement – be it religion, family or nationality – confirming the saying “A man’s foes are those of his own household” (Mt 10:36).

“Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgement” – John 7:24

If you have been treated unfairly, even by the supposedly impartial authorities in this life, God, the ultimate Judge before whom we all must appear and give account, will judge accurately (Jn 8:16; Rev 16:7, 19:2).

Reflection and Application

Hear both sides before forming an opinion – refuse to prejudge.
Settle disputes with fellow believers within the church, not the secular courts.
When treated unfairly, entrust your case to God, the perfectly fair judge.
Rely on the Holy Spirit for the words to say if called to defend your faith.