Tozer’s Reflection: The Justice of God
Acknowledging God’s Justice
In Chapter 17 of The Knowledge of the Holy, A.W. Tozer reflects on the justice of God, an attribute that is foundational to understanding His character. Justice is not merely a principle God follows—it is intrinsic to who He is. Tozer’s prayer at the chapter’s start captures this beautifully: a love for God’s justice and a recognition of its role in upholding the universe’s moral order.
Tozer clarifies that God's justice is not something imposed upon Him but flows directly from His nature. Justice, as an expression of His being, reflects His moral equity and fairness in all situations. This understanding reveals that God's justice is never in conflict with His other attributes, such as mercy or goodness. Instead, they work in perfect harmony.
Justice Defined
Tozer explains that justice is the application of moral equity, while iniquity represents inequity or moral unfairness. When God acts justly, it is not in adherence to an external standard but as an expression of His immutable character. This understanding is freeing: God’s justice is perfect, dependable, and consistent.
He further dispels misconceptions of divine justice, emphasizing that it does not operate independently from God’s mercy. Instead, these attributes coexist, ensuring that His judgments are righteous and His mercy is available to all who seek Him.
Justice and Redemption
One of the most powerful aspects of this chapter is Tozer’s discussion of how God’s justice and mercy meet at the cross. Through Christ’s atoning sacrifice, the justice of God is fully satisfied, enabling His mercy to flow freely to repentant sinners. This convergence is the heart of the gospel, demonstrating God’s faithfulness to His nature while extending grace to humanity.
Tozer emphasizes that this reconciliation is not a compromise between justice and mercy but a complete fulfillment of both. The cross showcases the depth of God’s love and the unyielding nature of His justice, offering redemption to all who believe.
Justice and Accountability
Tozer also addresses a dangerous misconception: the idea that God’s kindness nullifies His justice. This false hope dulls the conscience and disregards the reality of divine accountability. God’s justice stands as a call to repentance, urging us to turn to Him while there is still time.
However, for believers, God’s justice is a source of comfort. Having been justified through faith in Christ, we can rest assured that His justice now works on our behalf, securing our place in His family and upholding us in His righteousness.
Reflection: Living in the Light of God’s Justice
Tozer’s insights challenge us to consider how God’s justice shapes our understanding of salvation and daily living. His justice assures us that all His actions are right, whether in judgment or in grace. As believers, this provides profound assurance and calls us to live in response to His righteousness.
Practical Applications:
Cultivate Gratitude for Redemption: Reflect on how Christ satisfied the demands of God’s justice. Let this deepen your appreciation for the grace extended to you.
Pursue Holiness: Allow God’s justice to inspire you to live a life that honors Him, knowing He holds us accountable for how we reflect His character.
Trust in His Righteousness: In a world of inequity, rest in the assurance that God’s justice will ultimately prevail, giving you peace and hope.
A Prayer of Response
Father, thank You for the assurance that Your justice is perfect and unchanging. We are in awe of how Your justice and mercy converge at the cross, offering redemption and hope to those who trust in You. May our lives reflect Your righteousness as we walk in the light of Your truth. Lead us to live with hearts surrendered to You, resting in the knowledge that You are always faithful and true. Amen.
A Final Thought
Tozer’s reflections on the justice of God remind us of His unwavering commitment to righteousness and His merciful provision for sinners. As we meditate on these truths, let us walk in gratitude and confidence, knowing that His justice now upholds us and assures our eternal hope.