Who Is on Trial?

(Proverbs 22:23 KJV)  For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

This is a verse that is full of potential.  It is potentially glorious if taken out of context and potentially damning if we read it as intended. 

Read in isolation it seems to be a promise.  It seems to be saying that God will be our defense attorney.  Who would not want the Lord to “plead their case” (7378)? 

Read the previous verse.  This is talking about God defending the poor when they are being oppressed.  We are told not to rob the poor because if we do will “spoil” (take NASB) (6906) our “soul” (life NASB) (5315).  This is another reminder of the meaning of that phrase in the Declaration of Independence that all men are created equal.  We are to treat others as brothers and not as inferior.

So?  Just a reminder.  There are times to be a leader.  There are times to be tough.  There are times to do what people don’t like.  But our inner heart must realize there is a difference between doing what is right and doing what is simple oppression.