The Bible strongly condemns corruption in all its forms, whether political, economic or moral.
Here are some key passages that speak to it:
1. God hates corruption:
« Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the innocent. »(Exodus 23:8)
« Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the innocent. »(Deuteronomy 16:19)
2. The corrupt will suffer divine justice:
« Your rulers are rebels, partners with thieves; they all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the cause of the fatherless; the widow’s case does not come before them. »(Isaiah 1:23)
« Both hands are skilled in doing evil; the ruler demands gifts, the judge accepts bribes, the powerful dictate what they desire—they all conspire together. »(Micah 7:3)
3. Integrity is a divine requirement:
« The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. »(Proverbs 11:3)
« By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down. »(Proverbs 29:4)
4. Christians are to be honest and incorruptible:
« Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. »(Luke 16:10)
« Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. »(Ephesians 5:11)
The Bible therefore teaches that corruption is an injustice that destroys society and alienates men from God.
Believers are called to be models of integrity and justice.
PRAYER:
Lord our God, give us the courage to avoid and condemn corruption in all its forms.
It is in the precious name of your son Jesus Christ that we pray, Amen.
Apostle Jean-Claude SINDAYIGAYA