Topical Encyclopedia
JudgmentIn the biblical context, judgment refers to the divine assessment and decision-making process regarding human actions, thoughts, and intentions. It is a central theme throughout Scripture, reflecting God's holiness, justice, and righteousness. The Bible presents judgment as both a present reality and a future event, where God holds individuals and nations accountable for their deeds.
The Old Testament frequently depicts God as the ultimate judge who administers justice. In
Genesis 18:25, Abraham acknowledges God's role as judge: "Far be it from You to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Will not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?" . This passage underscores the belief that God's judgments are inherently just and fair.
The prophetic books often warn of impending judgment due to Israel's disobedience and idolatry. For instance, in
Isaiah 3:13-14, the prophet declares, "The LORD arises to contend; He stands to judge the people. The LORD brings this charge against the elders and leaders of His people: 'You have devoured the vineyard; the plunder of the poor is in your houses.'" . Here, judgment serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of God's moral standards.
In the New Testament, the theme of judgment is expanded to include the final judgment at the end of the age. Jesus speaks of this in
Matthew 25:31-32: "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats." . This eschatological judgment emphasizes accountability and the ultimate separation of the righteous from the wicked.
The Apostle Paul also addresses judgment, emphasizing that all will stand before God's judgment seat. In
Romans 14:10-12, he writes, "For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written: 'As surely as I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow before Me; every tongue will confess to God.' So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God." . This passage highlights personal responsibility and the inevitability of divine judgment.
PreservationPreservation in the biblical sense refers to God's protective and sustaining power over His creation and His people. It is an expression of His grace, mercy, and faithfulness, ensuring the continuation and well-being of those who trust in Him.
The concept of preservation is evident from the earliest narratives in Scripture. In Genesis, God preserves Noah and his family from the flood, demonstrating His ability to protect the righteous amidst judgment.
Genesis 6:8 states, "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD." . This favor results in Noah's preservation through the ark, symbolizing God's provision and care.
The Psalms frequently celebrate God's preserving power.
Psalm 121:7-8 declares, "The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul. The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore." . This assurance of divine protection is a source of comfort and confidence for believers.
In the New Testament, preservation is closely linked to salvation through Jesus Christ. In
John 10:28-29, Jesus assures His followers of their eternal security: "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand." . This promise underscores the certainty of God's preserving power over the believer's eternal destiny.
The Apostle Peter also speaks of preservation in the context of trials and suffering. In
1 Peter 1:5, he writes, "who through faith are shielded by God’s power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time." . Here, preservation is seen as an ongoing process, where God's power sustains believers until the final revelation of salvation.
Throughout Scripture, the themes of judgment and preservation are intertwined, reflecting God's justice and mercy. While judgment serves as a warning and call to righteousness, preservation offers hope and assurance of God's unwavering commitment to His people.
