Understanding Biblical Ideals in Everyday Life
For Christians, living in “right relationship” with God and with other people is at the heart of faith. But what does this really mean in simple terms? The Bible uses special words to describe these ideas—words like tsedeq or tsedaqah in Hebrew, and dikaiosynē and krisis in Greek. While these may sound complicated, their meaning is actually pretty practical: they call us to act with moral integrity, to be faithful, and to treat others ethically and fairly.
Justice and Righteousness: More Than Just Rules
In the Old Testament, “righteousness” (tsedeq/tsedaqah) is about living rightly—not only before God but also with our neighbors and even with creation itself. This means being honest, keeping your promises, and acting with kindness and fairness. It’s not just about following rules but about building relationships rooted in trust and respect.
In the New Testament, the Greek word dikaiosynē (righteousness) and krisis (judgment or justice) go even further. They remind us that being “right” with God should show up in how we treat others, especially in our communities. It’s not just about being a good person privately—it’s about making a positive difference in the world around us.
God as the Model
Justice and righteousness are first and foremost qualities of God. The Bible describes God as just and righteous, setting the example for us to follow. From the very start—through stories of creation and the giving of the Law—God shows that justice and fairness are the foundation of healthy relationships and thriving communities.
Why Does This Matter?
If we want to live as God intends, we are called to imitate these qualities. This means standing up for what is right, caring for our neighbors, and acting faithfully in our everyday lives. It means that our faith is not just about personal beliefs but about loving God and loving others. When we pursue justice and righteousness, we help to build a community where everyone can flourish.
In short, Christians are called to live in a way that reflects God’s own justice and righteousness, both in their relationship with God and with everyone around them. These aren’t just lofty ideals—they are practical guides for how to live well together.
Ultimately, when we choose to live out righteousness and justice in our daily lives, we’re helping to create the kind of society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. It’s about more than following rules—it’s about making our communities safer, kinder, and more compassionate places for all. By letting these values guide our actions, we not only honor God but also make the world around us a better place for everyone.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
Bibliography
- The Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version. Various passages on justice, righteousness, and God’s character.
- Brueggemann, Walter. Justice, Righteousness, and the Biblical Tradition. Interpretation, Vol. 39, No. 2, 1985.
- Wright, Christopher J. H. Old Testament Ethics for the People of God. InterVarsity Press, 2004.
- Keener, Craig S. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament. InterVarsity Press, 1993.
- Barton, John. Ethics and the Old Testament. Westminster John Knox Press, 1998.
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