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, righteousness, and justice. The concept of judgment is multifaceted, encompassing both temporal judgments within history and the ultimate eschatological judgment at the end of time.
1.
Divine Judgment in the Old Testament: The Old Testament frequently depicts God as a righteous judge who evaluates the deeds of individuals and nations. For instance, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) and the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12) are examples of God's judgment against sin and rebellion. The prophets often warned Israel and surrounding nations of impending judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry (e.g.,
Isaiah 13-23,
Jeremiah 46-51).
2.
Judgment in the New Testament: The New Testament continues the theme of divine judgment, emphasizing the role of Jesus Christ as the appointed judge. In
John 5:22, Jesus states, "Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son." The New Testament also speaks of a future judgment, where all individuals will stand before the judgment seat of Christ (
2 Corinthians 5:10) and be judged according to their deeds (
Revelation 20:12).
3.
The Nature of God's Judgment: God's judgment is portrayed as just and impartial.
Romans 2:6-11 highlights that God "will repay each one according to his deeds," showing no favoritism. His judgments are based on truth and righteousness, reflecting His holy character.
4.
Human Responsibility and Judgment: Scripture emphasizes human responsibility in light of divine judgment. Individuals are called to live righteously, repent of their sins, and seek God's mercy.
Hebrews 9:27 reminds us, "And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that to face judgment."
GraceGrace is a fundamental theological concept in Christianity, representing the unmerited favor and love of God toward humanity. It is through grace that salvation is offered, and it stands in contrast to the judgment that humanity deserves due to sin.
1.
Grace in the Old Testament: While the term "grace" is more explicitly developed in the New Testament, the Old Testament contains numerous examples of God's gracious actions. God's covenant with Abraham (
Genesis 12:1-3) and His enduring patience with Israel despite their repeated failures (
Exodus 34:6) illustrate His gracious character.
2.
Grace in the New Testament: The New Testament presents grace as central to the gospel message.
Ephesians 2:8-9 declares, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Grace is embodied in the person and work of Jesus Christ, whose sacrificial death and resurrection provide the means for salvation.
3.
The Relationship Between Grace and Law: The New Testament clarifies that grace does not nullify the law but fulfills it.
Romans 6:14 states, "For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace." Grace empowers believers to live in obedience to God's commands, not as a means of earning salvation, but as a response to the grace received.
4.
Grace and Sanctification: Grace is not only the means of salvation but also the power for sanctification.
Titus 2:11-12 teaches, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age."
5.
The Abundance of Grace: The New Testament emphasizes the abundance and sufficiency of God's grace.
Romans 5:20 proclaims, "But where sin increased, grace increased all the more." This highlights the inexhaustible nature of God's grace, which is more than sufficient to cover all sin and empower believers for righteous living.
In summary, judgment and grace are intertwined themes in the Bible, reflecting the holiness and love of God. While judgment underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for accountability, grace offers redemption and transformation through Jesus Christ.
