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Discover the Bible and Justice in HistorySample

Discover the Bible and Justice in History

DAY 5 OF 5

A Long Memory of Justice

John Quincy Adams (1767–1848) had a long and distinguished life of public service as diplomat, lawyer, legislator, and president. A few months before his death, recovering from the effects of a stroke, he recorded this memory in his diary:

“‘Glory to Almighty God—His will be done—He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord.’ Proverbs 17:15. This quotation from Scripture was repeated to me in the year 1787 by Theophilus Parsons, with whom I was then a student at law at Newbury Port—In the course of my daily reading of the Scripture this morning I came to it again—Fifty years have passed away since it was impressed upon my memory and committed to my heart as a precept of heavenly wisdom.”

Reflection

  • What do you see in this personal writing from the former president? 
  • Why do you think this Bible passage stayed with the young law student? 
  • Do you keep a journal to remember incidents like this? 
  • Spend some time with this proverb today, and the preceding verses in Proverbs 17. Does any of this “heavenly wisdom” stand out to you? 
  • If you are on social media, how would these verses apply? 
  • What about other civic roles you have, from voter to officeholder? 

About this Plan

Discover the Bible and Justice in History

Americans have always turned to the Bible for wisdom to live together. We argue over how to read and use it, but the Bible has helped shape our values and institutions. On this plan you will read the Bible as a freedom text alongside five voices from our past, focused on the value of Justice. Discover fresh takes on the Bible, and inspiration for facing today’s challenges.

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We would like to thank Faith and Liberty Discovery Center for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: http://faithandliberty.org