Deuteronomy 17

The last few verses of chapter 16 and most of chapter 17 address the issue of justice.  "Justice, only justice you must pursue; so that you will live and inherit the land Adonai your God is giving you." (16:20)  Don't distort justice, don't show favoritism, don't take bribes... judge with "righteous judgement." 

We like the sound of that.  But, some might not like the instructions in chapter 17...
"If there is found among you... a man or woman who does what Adonai your God sees as wicked.. investigate the matter diligently.  If it is true... stone the man or woman to death.... Thus you will put an end to this wickedness among you." ( v2-7)

"Anyone presumptuous enough not to pay attention to the [priest] appointed there to serve Adonai your God or to the judge - that person must die.  Thus you will exterminate such wickedness from Israel - all the people will hear about it and be afraid to continue acting presumptuously." (v12-13)

Law and order are God's idea.  He knows the hearts of men and women and He hates sin.  He desires justice for all... even more than we do.  He desires all of us to do justice - righteously - but according to His standards, which are holy and perfect.  If God judged us all by His standards right now - there would be none of us who could stand. Thankfully " He has not dealt with us according to our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities."  But instead, " As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." ( Psalm 103: 10,12)

Jesus provided the payment for our sins.  Justice was done.  God's mercy and love accomplished that for all who will call upon Him and fear Him.  To those who refuse His gift of forgiveness.. well, they will stand before the judgement throne and take the penalty for every sin they have committed - themselves. There will be justice. And it will be final.. eternal... hell.

Our Father in heaven,  our world is screaming for justice.. but they don't know what they are asking for.  What we need to be asking for is mercy!  Forgive us our sins.  Help us to truly forgive one another. May we "go and sin no more"!  May we honor You and seek Your Truth, walk in Your ways, and do everything for Your glory!  We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.