Execute True Justice and Show Compassion
- Edward D. Andrews
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
Zechariah 7:9 records Jehovah’s command through the prophet: “Thus has Jehovah of armies said, ‘Dispense true justice and practice kindness and compassion each to his brother.’” Zechariah prophesied after the return from Babylonian exile, around 520 B.C.E., when the temple reconstruction had resumed. The people inquired about continuing certain fasts associated with Jerusalem’s earlier destruction. Jehovah responded by exposing a deeper issue: ritual without righteousness.
The phrase “Dispense true justice” emphasizes integrity in legal and social dealings. Justice in Scripture is not abstract theory but practical righteousness in relationships. Deuteronomy 16:20 commands, “Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue.” True justice reflects Jehovah’s own character, for Psalm 89:14 declares, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne.” Any distortion of justice—whether through bribery, favoritism, or oppression—contradicts His nature.
The command to “practice kindness and compassion” uses covenantal language. Kindness translates the Hebrew term often rendered steadfast love, indicating loyal, faithful love grounded in commitment. Compassion speaks of tender mercy toward those in distress. Micah 6:8 summarizes Jehovah’s requirement: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does Jehovah require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Zechariah reiterates the same moral demand.
In the verses that follow, Jehovah condemns the oppression of widows, orphans, strangers, and the poor (Zech. 7:10). These groups were especially vulnerable in ancient society. Exploiting them revealed hardened hearts. Isaiah 1:16–17 similarly commands, “Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.” External religious observance without ethical obedience is hypocrisy.
Jehovah rebuked the returned exiles because they fasted for themselves, not for Him (Zech. 7:5–6). Their religious acts lacked genuine devotion. First Samuel 15:22 affirms, “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” True spirituality is measured not by ritual frequency but by conformity to Jehovah’s revealed will. Jesus later confronted the same error among the Pharisees, citing Hosea 6:6: “I desire compassion, and not sacrifice” (Matt. 9:13).
For Christians today, Zechariah 7:9 exposes the danger of formalism. Attending meetings, engaging in ministry, and maintaining outward orthodoxy are essential, yet they must be accompanied by justice and mercy in daily interactions. James 1:27 defines pure religion as caring for orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself unstained by the world. Faith without works of righteousness is dead (James 2:17).
True justice begins in the heart. Partiality, prejudice, and selfish gain distort judgment. Proverbs 21:3 states, “To do righteousness and justice is desired by Jehovah more than sacrifice.” This principle applies in family life, business dealings, and congregational leadership. Decisions must reflect impartiality and adherence to Scripture, not personal advantage.
Kindness and compassion also characterize the believer’s response to those who have fallen into sin. Galatians 6:1 instructs, “Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness.” Compassion does not excuse wrongdoing, but it seeks restoration rather than humiliation. It mirrors the mercy believers themselves have received through Christ’s atoning sacrifice.
Zechariah 7 later records that the people “refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder” (Zech. 7:11). As a result, desolation followed. Hard hearts invite discipline. Hebrews 3:15 warns, “Today if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” The Word of God confronts, corrects, and instructs. When believers respond in obedience, they enjoy fellowship with Jehovah.
Therefore, the daily application is direct. Ensure that worship is accompanied by righteous conduct. Examine whether your treatment of others reflects true justice and compassionate love. Colossians 3:12 urges believers to “put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” These qualities are not optional virtues but essential expressions of a life transformed by Scripture.
Zechariah 7:9 calls God’s people to align outward devotion with inward obedience. Jehovah of armies still demands justice, kindness, and compassion. Those who heed His Word demonstrate genuine reverence and prepare themselves for the coming reign of Christ in the premillennial Kingdom, where righteousness will dwell.
About the Author
EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).
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