The judicial system in Israel
Laws are necessary in any kingdom; only the Kingdom of God has righteous laws justly administered. God made us to live in societies�family, local communities, community of God�s people, body politic, the communities of business and culture�and the Ten Commandments show God�s social ideal, as well as his purpose for individuals. The furthering of good order in society is the first use of the law.
According to Jesus Christ, the judicial system that God gave to the nation of Israel rested on the double love commandment:
Jesus replied: "`Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' [Deut. 6: 5] This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: `Love your neighbor as yourself.' [Lev. 19: 18] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." (Matthew 22:37-40)
The Ten Commandments showed God�s ideal for the society: A God-fearing community, marked by common worship (1, 2, 3) and an accepted rhythm of work and rest (4), plus an unqualified respect for marriage and the family (5, 7), for property and owner�s rights (8, 10), for human life and each man�s claim on our protection (6), and for truth and honesty in all relationships (9).
We have already seen that righteousness and justice are the foundation of the rule of God; love and faithfulness go before him and are expressed in everything he does (Psalm 89:14). The claims of love, truth, righteousness and justice are absolute. They are not subject to adjustment for the sake of political expediency or personal preferences.
In the judicial system God gave the nation of Israel there was equality to the law. Everyone was subject to the same laws, all of which existed for the good of the entire community. The Law of God did not exist simply as a boundary fence to define unacceptable behaviour; it was to provoke right attitudes and provide clear paths for all to walk in. In fact we discover that the Law of God deals with the inner motivation of the heart as well as the external actions of the body.
The practical expression of love, truth, righteousness and justice in the nation of Israel was meant to be a powerful demonstration of the merciful rule of God to the surrounding nations. The heathen nations were governed largely by despotic rulers whose judicial system left much room for whim, bribery and self-interest. The priority of the Law: the God of love and righteousness first, others next and self last, was a bright light in the world of selfishness showing forth the excellencies of the government of God when it was practised by the covenant community of the people of God.