As we continue our blog series on criminal justice, we have to ask the question, “Why should a Christian choose a criminal justice degree?” At Grace Christian University, our goal is to “graduate courageous ambassadors for Christ who make an eternal impact wherever they go”. What does this look like in the sphere of criminal justice? What does the Bible have to say about criminal justice? Let’s find out in this blog post.
Why Should a Christian Choose a Criminal Justice Degree?
1. God is the Source of True Justice
Isaiah 61:8a says, “For I the Lord love justice; I hate robbery and wrong…”
Firstly, God is the source of true justice. When Christians enforce justice, they are modeling God’s character and upholding what He values. But most of all, they’re obeying His command to seek and uphold justice.
Psalm 82:3 – Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.
Psalm 33:5 – The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.
2. Criminal Justice Enforces Social Order
Romans 13:1-5 says, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.”
God is a god of order, and He establishes authority for the purpose of social order in society. This order is what allows us to live safe and productive lives.
3. We Can Be a Voice for the Oppressed
Proverbs 29:7 – The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.
Isaiah 1:17 – Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.
As Christians, it is our duty to speak up against injustice. Although every Christian has the opportunity to do this in some sphere, those in the field of criminal justice have a special duty, opportunity, and responsibility to administer justice and be a voice for the oppressed.
4. We Need Christians in Every Sphere
Lastly, God has given each one of us gifts and talents to use for His glory. Believers are needed in every field and sphere of life to make an impact through their work on those around them in the workplace.
Ephesians 2:8-10 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Grace Christian University
Whether you’re interested in being a law enforcement agent, forensic psychologist, FBI agent, youth correctional counselor, investigative reporter, or finding another career in the field of criminal justice, we invite you to check out our program at Grace Christian University.
Our program is taught from a Biblical foundation and equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to approach the field of criminal justice from a scriptural perspective.
Find out about admission requirements, common careers, and required classes, or request more info today!
