God is our justifier, and He came not to condemn, but to save

Proverbs 17:15 He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the Lord.

A person can justify the wrong person. And a person can condemn the wrong person. In both cases, these people are an abomination to the Lord.

First of all, God does not condemn even wicked people, and thus there is no need to justify them. Only God can actually do that. But, what’s being said here, is called corruption. When a person who knowingly seeks to justify a wicked person and their behavior, it’s abominable to God. That is, it’s a disgusting thing to God. He abhors this kind of thing. He detests it.

And, when a person condemns another person who is just, that is also loathed by the Lord.

It seems like we feel just like the Lord does. For when we see a wicked person get off the hook in a courtroom, it’s terrible to us. We don’t like it. And, when we see someone be falsely accused and betrayed, we don’t like it either. God has put His laws and ways into our very hearts and inner beings.

Finally, here’s another perspective. God will take someone who is wicked, and bring them face to face with His love and His forgiveness, and if they will receive Jesus Christ, then they will be justified and saved. And, that’s a blessing to God and to any other person.

And, God knows the truth about any and all men, and ultimately vindicates those who have been dealt with in a treacherous way.

Lord, You are great, and we are not. You are holy, and want us to be more like You. Please comfort the afflicted. We praise You in Jesus name.

Pastor Bob Grenier

Calvary Chapel Visalia

Application/Promises

1. God is the loving justifier.

2. God is not the condemner.

3. God loves those who others condemn.

4. Let’s try to be more like God towards others.

5. There is a golden rule.

6. Let’s treat others the way we want to be treated.