Briefing: As members of the criminal justice system, do you think that law enforcement is winning the war of justice?

Dispatch (Assignment): Most departments keep crime statistics. Is crime up or down in your jurisdiction? Read Matthew Chapter 12:15-21.

On the Street: Did you know that the profession of law enforcement is ordained by God? I believe it is as much a calling as ministry. In verse 18, we see prophesy out of Isaiah that says God sent Jesus to “proclaim justice to the nations”. Toward the end of this prophesy, it says Jesus will not quit until, “He leads justice to victory”. Jesus was victorious when He rose from the grave!

In this world we still have injustice. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 talks about the man of lawlessness that is in this world. Paul, the author of Thessalonians, also tells us that there is something in this world that is holding back the man of lawlessness. Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 5:13-14, “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world”. Salt is a preservative. It keeps meat from rotting. It prevents corruption from spreading. Light dispels darkness. It is the presence of the people of God on earth that restrains evil. Our job is to bring Christ to the nations, but He has also called each one of us into law enforcement to be the thin blue line.

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose”. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do”. Philippians 2:13 says, “for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose”. Ephesians 1:11 says, “In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will”.

Romans 13:1-7 tells us about how God has set up EVERY authority. Whoever rebels against authority rebels against God. As law enforcement officers, we have been placed in authority by God. The verses above speak of us being chosen. Romans 13:4 says, “For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoers”.

Highlights from this Read: In verse 15, “Aware of this”. Jesus knew what the Pharisees were plotting to do in verse fourteen so He left because it was not time for Him to be killed. In verse eighteen, we see this is also spoken at Jesus’ baptism and the Transfiguration (Matt 3:17, 17:5).

Investigational Resources: Isaiah 42:1-4 is the prophecy of Jesus.

Officer Safety Principle: Work as if working for the Lord because you actually are. If God put you in this position of authority then He is your boss.

from The Gospel of Matthew Through the Eyes of a Cop
©by Charles Gilliland. Used by permission.
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