Topical Encyclopedia
JudgmentIn the biblical context, judgment refers to the divine assessment and decision-making process by which God evaluates 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.
1.
Divine Judgment in the Old Testament: The Old Testament frequently depicts God as the ultimate judge of nations and individuals. For instance, in
Genesis 18:25, Abraham acknowledges God's role as the judge of all the earth: "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 right?" . The prophets often warned Israel and surrounding nations of impending judgment due to sin 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, "Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son" . The New Testament also speaks of a final judgment, where all people will stand before Christ to be judged according to their deeds (
Matthew 25:31-46,
Revelation 20:11-15).
3.
Criteria for Judgment: Scripture outlines various criteria for divine judgment, including adherence to God's commandments, faith in Jesus Christ, and the fruit of one's life.
Romans 2:6-8 declares, "God 'will repay each one according to his deeds.' To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow wickedness, there will be wrath and anger" .
4.
Purpose of Judgment: The purpose of divine judgment is to uphold God's justice, vindicate the righteous, and punish the wicked. It serves as a means of purifying God's people and establishing His kingdom. Judgment also acts as a deterrent against sin and a call to repentance, as seen in
2 Peter 3:9: "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance" .
SeparationSeparation in the biblical sense often refers to the division between the righteous and the wicked, the holy and the profane, or believers and unbelievers. This concept is closely linked to judgment and is evident throughout Scripture.
1.
Separation in the Old Testament: The Old Testament law emphasized the need for Israel to be separate from other nations to maintain holiness and purity.
Leviticus 20:26 states, "You are to be holy to Me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be My own" . This separation was both physical and spiritual, involving distinct practices, worship, and moral conduct.
2.
Separation in the New Testament: The New Testament continues the theme of separation, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Believers are called to live distinct lives, set apart for God. In
2 Corinthians 6:17, Paul exhorts, "Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you" . This separation is not about physical isolation but about maintaining spiritual integrity and avoiding sin.
3.
Eschatological Separation: The ultimate separation will occur at the final judgment, where the righteous will be separated from the wicked. Jesus describes this in the parable of the sheep and the goats in
Matthew 25:31-46, where He will separate people "as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats" . The righteous will inherit eternal life, while the wicked will face eternal punishment.
4.
Purpose of Separation: The purpose of separation is to preserve the holiness of God's people and to prepare them for His kingdom. It serves as a reminder of God's call to holiness and the distinct identity of believers as His chosen people. Separation also underscores the reality of eternal destinies, urging individuals to choose righteousness and faith in Christ.
