Anchor My Faith

Proclaims Justice to the Gentiles

Scripture: Matthew 12:18-21

We left the previous lesson wondering about the meaning of the statement “he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles” (Matthew 12:18). Three things were pointed out, which we will look at in this lesson. Those three things are: the character of the one proclaiming, what justice represents, and why specifically to the Gentiles.

First, let us think about the character of Jesus, the servant, who is to proclaim in this context. This servant is Jesus, the Word made flesh, the Son of God, who is the truth. Jesus has the credentials to proclaim justice as he has and will not ever sin.

The justice that he proclaims, that flows from his heart and character, involves making individuals and communities whole by upholding both goodness and impartiality. This justice is not just to judge our sin, but to make us, the objects of his love, right before him. James tells us that morality and immorality are birthed in our hearts but justice is centered in God’s heart. Therefore, we are to purify our hearts whose desires lead us to sin and then with transformed hearts we are to meet the needs of others without showing partiality. Being justified by faith in the God of all justice, we are to experience the wholeness that he brings and extend it as citizens of his kingdom.

Proclaiming this justice to the Gentiles indicates that justice is to be extended beyond the Jews to include the Gentiles. Justice is a matter of one’s heart, but we are to include others. God chose the Jews to reveal himself to and instructed them to share him with others through meeting their needs. As God reveals more and more of himself and his expectations he sends Jesus to us with the gospel message. “Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18 – 20 ESV).” The justice of God is to be proclaimed to all no matter who they are.

“He will not quarrel or cry aloud, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets” (Matthew 12:19). Jesus did not come as a conquering warrior this time, but will return as one later. “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory” (Matthew 12:20). Jesus would not oppress the feeble and the poor as victorious warriors and conquerors did. Jesus would not oppress those of little strength nor put out hope and life when it seems to be almost gone. He would not be proud and overbearing and trample down the poor as the Pharisees did. He would not treat them harshly or unkindly, but will cherish the feeble. This will continue until the truth of God, the gospel, is heard by all who are to hear.

“In his name the Gentiles will hope” (Matthew 12:21). This is true today as I, a gentile, in the name of Jesus have a living hope within me.

Prayer

Father, thank you that Jesus came to proclaim justice to the Gentile. Thank you for the living hope he gives to us of being with him forever.