§ 1 The text
NASB
Proverbs 21:15, NASBThe exercise of justice is joy for the righteous, but is terror to the workers of iniquity.
The claim this verse counters
“Calling for the full exercise of justice is harsh or extreme.”
§ 2 The argument
For the righteous, doing justice is a joy; only 'workers of iniquity' find it a terror. Abolitionists argue that discomfort with establishing full justice for the unborn should prompt self-examination — the righteous delight to see justice done.
§ 3 Context & notes
The speaker draws the pointed application that a distaste for doing justice may indicate whose side one is on. Follows the 'evil men do not understand justice' theme (Prov 28:5).
§ 4 Themes
joy of justice righteous vs wicked self-examination
§ 5 Discussion questions
- The righteous find doing justice a joy. What does it mean if establishing justice for the unborn feels only like a threat?
- How do we keep zeal for justice from curdling into self-righteousness?
Source transcript
Drawn from
Does the Pro-Life Movement Hate Justice? (T. Russell Hunter, 'Justice Alone') — 'When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers. Proverbs 21:15.'
§ 6 Related
Editorial note
Verse text is quoted from the NASB. Scripture quotations taken from the New American Standard Bible® (NASB), Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. lockman.org