Justice at Calvary

He is known to have authored the worst single decision in the history of the U.S. Supreme Court—the pro-slavery Dred Scott v. Sandford.

Chief Justice Roger Taney was at one time more moderate on the issue of slavery. As a young man, he called slavery a “blot on our national character.” But in his old age, his views hardened; he believed men and women of African descent were inferior and had no rights. In truth, the Dred Scott decision was a blot on the nation’s character.

Satan has attempted to leave a blot on God’s character, claiming that the holy law cannot be kept and should be discarded. But Calvary proved otherwise. Christ’s death affirmed the necessity of the law. The Bible teaches that God’s commandments are heaven’s eternal code of conduct. “The works of His hands are verity and justice; all His precepts are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness” (Psalm 111:7, 8).

If humanity would be saved, the death of Christ was necessary in order for God to maintain His justice and righteousness. Through Jesus’ perfect sacrifice, the Lord could be both just and merciful. Christ’s death satisfied divine justice, and God was willing to accept it in the place of our death.

People may choose to reject the atoning blood of Jesus and not receive the forgiveness of their sins. In so doing, they become subjects of God’s wrath against unrighteousness. “He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him” (John 3:36).

Christ’s atoning sacrifice for you was the single best decision in the

history of the universe. Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior?

Apply It:

Can you think of one of the best judges in the history of the Bible?

Dig Deeper:

Deuteronomy 16:19; 1 Kings 10:9; Psalm 89:14

Key Bible Texts

It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. (Proverbs 21:15 KJV)