Judgment

In the Bible, the concept of "judgment" carries profound theological significance, encompassing both divine justice and moral accountability. The Hebrew word for judgment, "mishpat," implies not only a legal decision or sentence but also the establishment of justice and righteousness (Psalm 89:14). This is evident in various contexts, such as God's judgment on nations for their sins (Isaiah 10:3) and the call for believers to act justly (Micah 6:8). The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing the ultimate judgment that will occur at the end of the age, where Christ will judge the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1). Judgment in the biblical sense also includes the idea of correction and discipline, reflecting God's desire for repentance and restoration rather than mere punishment (Hebrews 12:6). The parables of Jesus, such as the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46), illustrate the criteria for judgment based on actions and moral choices in this life. Thus, biblical judgment encompasses both the immediate consequences of one's actions and the final divine assessment of one's life, underscoring God's holiness and the ethical implications of human behavior.

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