InstaStudy

Divine Judgement: An Outline for Study

This study explores the biblical concept of divine judgement, examining its nature, purpose, and the standards by which all humanity will be held accountable. It also provides guidance on how to prepare for this inevitable encounter with the righteous Judge.

1. The Nature and Source of Divine Judgement

1.1 God's Righteousness as the Basis for Judgement

Verses: Psalm 9:7-8; Romans 2:5-6; Hebrews 12:23
  • God's character is inherently just and righteous, demanding accountability for all actions.
  • His perfect nature means He cannot overlook sin or unrighteousness.
  • Judgement is an expression of His holiness and His commitment to justice.

1.2 Jesus Christ: The Appointed Judge

Verses: John 5:22-23; Acts 10:42; Acts 17:30-31; 2 Timothy 4:1
  • The Father has committed all judgement to the Son, Jesus Christ.
  • Jesus, being God manifested in the flesh, possesses the authority and perfect understanding to judge all humanity.
  • He is the righteous judge who will render a just verdict to every individual.

1.3 The Universality of Judgement

Verses: Hebrews 9:27; Romans 14:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:10
  • It is appointed for all people to die once, and after this, the judgement.
  • Every individual, whether living or dead, will stand before the judgement seat of Christ.
  • No one is exempt from accountability before the divine judge.

2. Different Aspects and Times of Judgement

2.1 Judgement in the Present Life

Verses: 1 Peter 4:17; Romans 1:18; Proverbs 11:21
  • God's judgement can manifest in this life through consequences for sin and divine discipline.
  • The wrath of God is revealed against ungodliness and unrighteousness even now.
  • Judgement often begins with the household of God, as a refining process for believers.

2.2 The Judgement Seat of Christ (for believers)

Verses: 2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 14:10; 1 Corinthians 3:12-15
  • Believers will stand before the judgement seat of Christ to give an account of their deeds done in the body.
  • This judgement is not for condemnation but for the evaluation of works and the awarding of rewards.
  • Works done for Christ will endure, while those done for self will be burned up, though the individual will still be saved.

2.3 The Great White Throne Judgement (for the unsaved)

Verses: Revelation 20:11-15; Daniel 7:9-10
  • This is the final judgement for all who have not accepted God's plan of salvation.
  • The dead, small and great, will stand before God, and the books will be opened, including the Book of Life.
  • Those whose names are not found written in the Book of Life will be cast into the lake of fire.

3. The Standards and Evidence for Judgement

3.1 Judgement According to Works

Verses: Revelation 20:12-13; Matthew 16:27; Romans 2:6-8
  • Every person will be judged according to their deeds, whether good or evil.
  • Our actions, words, and even thoughts will be brought into account.
  • God's justice ensures that each individual receives what their works deserve.

3.2 Judgement According to the Word of God

Verses: John 12:48; Romans 2:12-16; James 2:12
  • The Word of God, as revealed in scripture, serves as the ultimate standard for judgement.
  • Those who have heard and rejected the gospel will be judged by it.
  • Even those without the written law will be judged by the law written on their hearts and their conscience.

3.3 Judgement According to Light Received

Verses: Luke 12:47-48; John 3:19-21; Romans 1:20
  • Accountability is proportional to the knowledge and understanding one has received.
  • Greater light brings greater responsibility and, consequently, greater judgement for rejection.
  • People are condemned because they loved darkness rather than light.

4. Preparing for Judgement

4.1 Repentance and Conversion

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19; Luke 13:3
  • True repentance involves a change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and towards God.
  • It is the foundational step for receiving forgiveness and escaping condemnation.
  • Without repentance, all are destined for eternal separation from God.

4.2 Water Baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5; Colossians 2:12
  • Water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is essential for the remission of sins.
  • It is an act of obedience, identifying with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.
  • Through baptism, one publicly confesses faith and is spiritually united with the Lord.

4.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:38-39; Acts 10:44-48; Acts 19:6; Romans 8:9
  • The infilling of the Holy Spirit is a vital part of God's salvation plan, empowering believers for holy living.
  • The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
  • The Spirit seals believers and is a guarantee of their inheritance and future resurrection.

4.4 Living a Life of Obedience and Holiness

Verses: Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Romans 6:1-4
  • After salvation, believers are called to walk in newness of life, striving for holiness.
  • Obedience to God's Word demonstrates genuine faith and love for Him.
  • A life dedicated to God's will is evidence of preparation for His coming judgement.