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Jesus Christ did not come to earth to save the Jews from Roman control. He also did not end wars, corruption and crime. Sin still existed after His resurrection.
Jesus’ ministry centered on faith and salvation through belief in Him.
However, God’s Word and the Lord make it clear that He will judge sin in this fallen world.
The book of Romans teaches government exists to serve the people:
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment” (Romans 13:1-3).
A Christian’s primary allegiance is to God and to uphold biblical principles over conflicting government policies. But the government does play an important role.
The government should protect its people through the military and law enforcement. When corruption or crime occurs, the government has the obligation to bring down justice.
In the Old Testament, we learn of the standards for the death penalty under the Mosaic Law (Genesis 9:6, Leviticus 24:17). Throughout the book of Leviticus, we also read about guidelines for addressing theft and other crimes.
Since we were created in His image, God’s law is inscribed in our hearts.
Given sin’s prevalence in our fallen world, the existence of frequent and extreme crime is unsurprising.
While there will be a day (the coming of Christ) when all sinners and judgment will occur, Christians must stand brave and face corruption and crime in the name of Christ.
The greatest commandment teaches us to love God with all our heart and soul and love our neighbor (everyone else) as ourselves.
Crime destroys neighborhoods and lives, as does corruption. Christians must face darkness in the name of light and use Christ’s teachings to promote justice, liberty, and security.
“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion” (Proverbs 28:1).
Christians have been on the side of freedom, gaining independence in the American Revolution, leading the fight against slavery and rescuing Europe twice against tyranny.
Christianity has a peculiar sentiment that often focuses on courage, justice and freedom. Today, we can learn much from past generations and stand up to promote justice.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).
