BIBLE TRUTHS EXPLAINED

Transcription

1 BIBLE TRUTHS EXPLAINED What God s Word teaches about THE LAST JUDGMENT Gordon Lyons KJV Edition i

2 Important Notice The series Bible Truths Explained may be downloaded, printed and used free of charge by individuals, groups, and institutions However, none of these Doctrinal Notes may be offered for sale or for commercial publication Revised: 1988, 1999, 2005 First published: word.com web site publication ii

3 Copyright Notices Bible Truths Explained The Last Judgment Copyright 2005 Gordon Lyons All Rights Reserved The complete text of this work, or extracts from it, may be quoted elsewhere, on condition that the name and author of the original work is acknowledged in a format similar to the following: Reproduced from Copyright 2005, Gordon Lyons Scripture quotations taken from The HOLY BIBLE KING JAMES VERSION unless otherwise stated Additional Scripture quotations taken from The HOLY BIBLE NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, by International Bible Society Used by permission iii

4 Barnes, Alfred Principal Works Consulted Notes on The Bible, Electronic edition (public domain) Bauer, Walter / revised and edited by Danker, Frederick William A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, (Third Edition BDAG) Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, Berkhof, Louis Systematic Theology, Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1939, 1941 reprint. Calvin, John Institutes: [Beveridge Translation, 1800, Battles Translation Vols. 1-4, 1960] Rio, WI, USA: Ages Software, Inc., The John Calvin Collection, 2000, Electronic edition (CD). Clarke, Adam Dabney, R. L. Gill, John Hodge, Charles Commentary on the New Testament: Electronic edition (public domain) Systematic Theology, [St. Louis: Presbyterian Publishing Company of St. Louis, 1871, second ed. 1878] Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust edition, Exposition of the Entire Bible, Electronic edition (public domain) Systematic Theology, Vols. 1-3; Grand Rapids, Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1977 reprint. Hodge, Charles Princeton Sermons, Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1879, 1979 reprint. Jamieson, Fausset & Brown Murray, John Poole, Matthew Robertson, A.T. Commentary on The Whole Bible (Revised edition, 1961): Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House, Redemption Accomplished and Applied, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, A Commentary on The Holy Bible Vols. 1-3 ( ): Edinburgh, Banner of Truth Trust, 1878, 2000 reprint. Robertson s Word Pictures, Electronic edition (public domain) Ryle, J. C. Practical Religion: Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1939, 1941 reprint. Vincent Vincent s Word Studies, Electronic edition (public domain) Westminster Confession of Faith, Inverness: Free Presbyterian Publications, 1976 reprint. iv

5 Special Acknowledgement I must acknowledge a genuine debt of gratitude to the work of Dr. Charles Hodge. The writings of this theologian from a previous generation have helped considerably in preparing this work. On a number of occasions as will be seen when reading these studies I have cited or alluded to Dr. Hodge s remarks in his three-volume Systematic Theology. These references have been acknowledged in the footnotes to the study text. v

6 The Last Judgment Contents BIBLE TRUTHS EXPLAINED...i THE LAST JUDGMENT...i Contents...vi Part Synopsis: The Last or Final Judgment 1 Note 1 1 The Judgment Seat of Christ 1 Scripture References: Note 1 1 Comparative Scripture References: Note 1 4 Note 2 4 One or Two Resurrections? 4 Scripture References: Note 2 5 Note 3 6 Regarding Revelation Chapter 20 6 Scripture References: Note 3 7 Note 4 7 Day of Judgment May be Phased 7 Scripture References: Note 4 7 Note 5 8 Judgment is Final 8 Scripture References: Note 5 8 Note 6 9 No-One is Ignorant of God 9 Scripture References: Note 6 9 Related Bible Doctrines 10 Preliminary Remarks 10 No Purgatory, Limbo, or Annihilation 10 The Bible Reveals Everything We Need to Know 10 Part Doctrine of the Last Judgment 13 Summary of Doctrine 13 Scripture References: Summary Note 1 13 (The Last Judgment is a definite future event) 13 Scripture References: Summary Note 2 14 (Christ is to be the Judge) 14 Scripture References: Summary Note 3 15 (The Last Judgment will take place at the second coming of Christ) 15 vi

7 Scripture References: Summary Note 4 16 (The persons to be judged will be men and angels) 16 Scripture References: Summary Note 5 17 (The ground of the Last Judgment will be the deeds done while living in this present body)17 Scripture References: Summary Note 6 18 (Men will be judged according to the light they had) 18 Scripture References: Summary Note 7 19 (Each person s destiny will be unalterably determined) 19 Scriptural Accounts of the Final Judgment 19 Table 1: List of Subjects 20 Subject 20 Teaching 20 Scripture Reference 20 Events Associated with the Final Judgment 20 Summary 20 Scripture References: Summary Note 1 20 Scripture References: Summary Note 2 21 Scripture References: Summary Note 3 22 Scripture References: Summary Note 4 22 Scripture References: Summary Note 5 23 Scripture References: Summary Note 6 23 Scripture References: Summary Note 7 23 Outline of the Final Judgment 24 Scripture References (1) 24 Scripture References (2) 25 Scripture References (3) 25 Scripture References (4) 26 Scripture References (5) 26 Scripture References (6) 27 Part Key Parables Illustrating the Last Judgment 29 The Last Judgment Illustrated Parabolically 29 The Parable of the Weeds or Tares 29 The Parable of the Weeds or Tares Explained 30 The Parable of the Net 30 The Sheep and the Goats 31 The Separation of Righteous and Wicked 31 Scripture References (1) 31 Scripture References (2) 32 Scripture References (3) 32 The Destiny of the Righteous 33 The Works of the Righteous 34 The Destiny of the Wicked 34 The Works of the Wicked 35 Part The Judgment Seat of Christ 37 Symbolic Elements 37 God s Throne Symbolises Universal Dominion 37 Who is Seated on the Judgment Throne? 37 Daniel s Vision of the Throne 38 The Ancient of Days 39 God s Son is The Judge 39 vii

8 The Great White Throne 40 The Great White Throne Judgment 40 The Books will be Opened 41 Reward or Punishment 42 Judgment for Reward 42 The Reward of Eternal Blessedness 43 The Punishment of Eternal Suffering 44 God is Not Willing that Any Should Perish 44 Epilogue 46 viii

9 Part 1 Synopsis: The Last or Final Judgment The Last or Final Judgment is the great Court Session, which will be held in heaven following the second coming of the Lord in glory. Mankind and angels will be arraigned before the judgment throne, where they will give an account to God for every thought, word and deed. All who appear before the judgment seat of Christ, will on the one hand be constrained to confess the grace of God in showing mercy to those undeserving of mercy; and on the other hand to recognise the righteousness and justice of God in executing wrath on those deserving of wrath. The wicked will be judged and punished according to their works. Then, they will be consigned to hell the lake of fire with its everlasting torments of body and soul. The righteous will be judged and rewarded or will lose their reward according to their works. Concerning the righteous, the final judgment carries with it no possibility of condemnation. In virtue of Christ s perfect obedience to, and fulfilment of, the law of God, and by the merits of his vicarious and atoning sacrifice, God justifies everyone who believes on his Son. Every truly regenerated child of God will be accepted into heaven, and will live and reign with Christ in his glorious and everlasting kingdom. Note 1 The Judgment Seat of Christ The judgment seat of Christ (or the judgment seat of God) represents the throne of Christ s majestic or kingly glory on which he will sit at the Last Day to judge both mankind and angels. In the book of Revelation, the judgment seat of Christ is referred to as a great white throne: i.e., the throne of Christ s glory and purity, or his glorious throne. Different terms are sometimes used when referring to the judgment throne. However, these terms relate to the same period of time (the events following the second coming of Christ). They relate also to the same judgment (the last or final judgment). Furthermore, as regards mankind, they relate to two categories (the righteous and the wicked). As regards spirit beings Satan and the fallen angels they too will appear before the judgment throne. (Matt. 16:27; 19:28; 25:31; Luke 22:29-30; Rom. 14:10; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rev. 3:21-5:14; 11:15-18; 14:14-19; 20:10-11; cf. Dan. 7:9-14,26-27) Scripture References: Note 1 Matthew 16:27 (27) For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. (See vv.21-28) Matthew 19:28 (28) And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (See vv.27-30) Matthew 25:31-34 (31) When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: (32) And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as BTE19: The Last Judgment 1

10 a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: (33) And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. (34) Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: (See vv.35-46) Luke 22:29-30 (29) And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; (30) That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Romans 14:10-12 (10) But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at naught thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. (11) For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. {Isaiah 45:23; cf. Phil. 2:10-11} (12) So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (See vv.1-13) 2 Corinthians 5:10 (10) For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. (See vv.6-9) Revelation 3:21 (21) To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. (See vv.14-22) Revelation 4:2-4 (2) And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. (3) And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald. (4) And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. (See vv.1-11) Revelation 5:6-10 (6) And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns 1 and seven eyes, 2 which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. (7) And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. (8) And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, 1 seven horns: symbolising perfect power; i.e., all-powerful or almighty. 2 seven eyes: symbolising perfect knowledge; i.e., all-seeing and all-knowing, or omniscient. BTE19: The Last Judgment 2

11 having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. (9) And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; (10) And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. (See vv.1-14) Revelation 11:15-18 (15) And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign forever and ever. (16) And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshiped God, (17) Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. (18) And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth. {Cf. Ps. 99:1 LXX} (See Rev. 11:19) Revelation 14:14-16 (14) And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, {Daniel 7:13} having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. (15) And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. (16) And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped. (See vv.6-13; cf. Mark 4:29) Revelation 14:17-19 (17) And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. (18) And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe. (19) And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. {Cf. Rev. 19:15} (See Rev. 14:20) BTE19: The Last Judgment 3

12 Revelation 20:10-12 (10) And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night forever and ever (11) And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. (12) And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. (See vv.7-15) Comparative Scripture References: Note 1 Daniel 7:9-12 (9) I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. (10) A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened. (11) I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spoke: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame. (12) As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time. (See vv.1-8) Daniel 7:13-14 (13) I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. (14) And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. (See vv.15-25) Daniel 7:26-27 (26) But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. (27) And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him. (See v.28) Note 2 One or Two Resurrections? Many Christians believe that there will be two separate resurrections and judgments: one pertaining only to the saved (the righteous), and the other pertaining only to the lost (the unrighteous or wicked). They further believe that a period of 1,000 years will separate these two resurrections, during which time the Antichrist will appear on earth among the remainder of mankind. Consequently, those remain- BTE19: The Last Judgment 4

13 ing on earth after the first resurrection will be exposed to the great tribulation. During this time also, they believe that Israel will be converted. There are a number of variations to this interpretation. The Lord Jesus, however, appears to speak only of one resurrection a general resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked (the sheep and the goats) not of two separate resurrections. This general resurrection will occur at the second coming of the Lord, and it will be accompanied by the separation of the righteous from the wicked. Every individual in each of these two groups will then be judged beginning with the righteous. (Matt. 13:24-30,36-43,47-50; 25:31-46) Scripture References: Note 2 Matthew 13:24-30 (24) Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: (25) But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. (26) But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. (27) So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? (28) He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? (29) But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. (30) Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. Matthew 13:36-43 (36) Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field. (37) He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; (38) The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; (39) The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. (40) As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. (41) The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; (42) And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. (43) Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. (See vv.24-30) Matthew 13:47-50 (47) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: (48) Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. (49) So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come BTE19: The Last Judgment 5

14 forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, (50) And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 25:31-46 (31) When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: (32) And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: (33) And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. (34) Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: (35) For I was hungry, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: (36) Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. (37) Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? (38) When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? (39) Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? (40) And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. (41) Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: (42) For I was hungry, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: (43) I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. (44) Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? (45) Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. (46) And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. Note 3 Regarding Revelation Chapter 20 The passage of Scripture that, at first sight, appears to support the theory of two resurrections separated by 1,000 years is Revelation chapter 20, verses 1-7. However, in view of the degree of symbolic or metaphorical language used in Revelation, it would be very unwise to base such an interpretation on this passage unless that interpretation were to find additional and indisputable support from other (didactic) passages of God s Word, such as the Gospels or the Epistles. The key to the interpretation of this and other passages of Scripture lies in a correct understanding of the Lord s express teaching on this particular subject, as given in the Gospels. This also involves the application of the rule of sound exegesis referred to as the analogy of Scripture. The analogy of Scrip- BTE19: The Last Judgment 6

15 ture requires that we compare all related passages of God s Word with one another to ensure that these passages are in agreement with a particular interpretation. (Matt. 25:46; John 5:28-29; Acts 24:15) Scripture References: Note 3 Matthew 25:46 (46) And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. (See vv ) John 5:28-29 (28) Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, (29) And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. (See vv ) Acts 24:15 (15) And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. (See vv.14-16) Note 4 Day of Judgment May be Phased The Scriptures teach that both the holy angels, and the saints (believers), will have some share in the judicial work of Christ. It is, therefore, possible that although there will be only one resurrection and judgment this judgment may be carried out in several distinct phases. In this way, the saints could be judged and rewarded first. Then the saints together with the holy angels could join with Christ in judging both unbelievers (the wicked) and fallen angels (the demons). (Matt. 19:28; 1 Cor. 6:2-3; Jude 14-15) Scripture References: Note 4 Matthew 19:28 (28) And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (See vv.27-30) 1 Corinthians 6:1-3 (1) Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? (2) Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? (3) Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (See vv. 4-11) Jude 1:14-15 (14) And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, (15) To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their BTE19: The Last Judgment 7

16 hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. (See vv.3-23) Note 5 Judgment is Final As regards unbelievers (the wicked or the goats ), there will be no right of appeal against the sentence of condemnation, and no hope of reprieve from the just execution of that sentence. While they lived on earth, the wicked i.e., all those outside of Christ were condemned already and were abiding under the wrath of God. At the final judgment, God s righteous wrath against sin will finally be executed upon all those who have not acknowledged God, and who have not obeyed the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Their neglect or rejection of Christ is neglect or rejection of God s only appointed way of salvation, and of atonement for sin. As such, it is a wilful rejection of the only way whereby the wrath of God against sin can be appeased or propitiated. It is a wilful rejection of the only way whereby sinful and rebellious men and women can be reconciled to an absolutely holy, just, and righteous God. This is the same Eternal and Almighty God who has great compassion upon all those who truly repent. (John 3:18,36; Rom. 2:5-8,16; 2 Thess. 1:6-10) Scripture References: Note 5 John 3:18 (18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3:36 (36) He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (See vv ) Romans 2:5-8 (5) But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; (6) Who will render to every man according to his deeds: {Psalm 62:12; Prov. 24:12} (7) To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: (8) But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, (See vv.1-11) Romans 2:12 (12) For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; Romans 2:16 (16) In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. (See vv.13-15) 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10 (6) Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; (7) And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the BTE19: The Last Judgment 8

17 Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, (8) In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: (9) Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; (10) When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. (See vv.1-12; see 2 Thess. 2:1ff) Note 6 No-One is Ignorant of God No one will be exempted from the judgment of condemnation and the sentencing to the torments of an eternal hell. All mankind has sinned, and all mankind alike deserves to perish. It matters not that some may claim ignorance of the Gospel. They cannot be in ignorance of God for God has revealed his divine power and nature in the things that he has created. These people, then, will be judged according to the light they had; but claiming ignorance of God will not exempt them from final and eternal punishment. Hence, the importance of making known to all nations the only name by whom they may be saved from the never-ending torments of the coming wrath. (Acts 26:17-18; Rom. 1:18-20; 2:12-16; 3:23) Scripture References: Note 6 Acts 26:16-18 (16) But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; (17) Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, (18) To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. (See vv.12-23) Romans 1:18-20 (18) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; (19) Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them. (20) For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (See vv.21-32) Romans 2:12-16 (12) For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; (13) (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. (14) For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: (15) Which show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) (16) In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. (See vv.1-24) BTE19: The Last Judgment 9

18 Romans 3:23 (23) For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; (See vv.9-31) Related Bible Doctrines The Doctrine of the Last Judgment or the Final Judgment is directly related to the fall of man. God has appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by that Man whom he has ordained. This judgment will come upon all mankind because of mankind s sin and rebellion. The final judgment will take place following the second coming of the Lord Jesus and the general resurrection. The doctrine of the Last Judgment, therefore, is intimately related to these other doctrines. The outcome of the Last Judgment is related to the doctrines of heaven and hell. In addition to the final judgment upon all mankind, Satan and the fallen angels will be judged and consigned to the lake of fire. 3 Preliminary Remarks No Purgatory, Limbo, or Annihilation For every individual who will stand before God at the final judgment and this will include all mankind there can be only one of two possible outcomes: For the righteous, the glorious outcome will be heaven. For the wicked, the dreadful outcome will be hell. There are no states or places of existence intermediate between heaven and hell (as, for example, purgatory or limbo). Again, there is no such thing as annihilation or non-existence either immediately after death, or subsequently and because of the final judgment. After the second coming of the Lord, the resurrection of the just and the unjust, and the final judgment, the whole person body and soul (including mind and spirit) will continue to exist for all eternity. They will continue to exist, either in the never-ending torments of hell, or in the everlasting glories of heaven. 4 The Bible Reveals Everything We Need to Know As with many if not all subjects dealing with the last things (eschatology), the details associated with the doctrine of the final judgment are open to some differences of opinion and interpretation. However, these differences do not relate to any matter of supreme importance. Rather, they are confined to matters such as the precise sequence of events that will take place in connection with that Day. Such differences of opinion among true believers can be accepted, as long as they do not contradict any fundamental teaching on this subject as revealed to us in the Bible. As the infallible Word of God, the Bible is our only sure guide in all matters relating to what we must believe and how we must live (faith and practice). Everything we need to know is revealed to us in its pages. Any matter not revealed in these pages, is not important for us to know about during this life insofar as our faith and the practice of godliness is concerned. In the absence of clear and specific information, we must not attempt to speculate on these or any other matters that God has not disclosed to us in his Word. This principle is elucidated for us by the Scripture that says: Deuteronomy 29:29 (29) The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law. (See vv.1-28) 3 See further on Bible Truths Explained: The Fall of Man; The Resurrection; The Second Coming; Heaven; Hell; Defeat of Satan and the Demons, by Gordon Lyons 4 See further on Bible Truths Explained: Heaven; Hell, by the same author. BTE19: The Last Judgment 10

19 Those things that God has revealed are those things that are contained in the 66 books of the Bible. There is no other source of divine revelation or of authoritative instruction on faith and morals for the people of God. We must confine ourselves, therefore, to those truths that the Bible reveals and teaches, without being influenced by man s non-biblical opinions. 5 5 See further on Bible Truths Explained: Divine Inspiration of The Bible, by Gordon Lyons BTE19: The Last Judgment 11

20

21 Part 2 Doctrine of the Last Judgment Summary of Doctrine The doctrine of the last or final judgment may be summarised as follows: 6 1. The Last Judgment is a definite future event, which will take place at the end of this present age. At the last judgment, the eternal destiny of men and angels will be finally determined and publicly manifested. (Matt. 13:30,37-43,47-50; Rev. 20:11-15) Scripture References: Summary Note 1 (The Last Judgment is a definite future event) Matthew 13:30 (30) Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. (See vv.24-29) Matthew 13:37-39 (37) He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; (38) The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one; (39) The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels. Matthew 13:40-43 (40) As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. (41) The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; (42) And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. (43) Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. (See vv.24-30) Matthew 13:47-50 (47) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: (48) Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. (49) So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, (50) And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 6 Based on C. Hodge, Systematic Theology, Vol. 3 [Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1871, 1977 reprint], pp BTE19: The Last Judgment 13

22 Revelation 20:11-15 (11) And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. (12) And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. (13) And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. (14) And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. (15) And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. 2. Christ is to be the Judge: The Father judges no-one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son. Christ is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. And God has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. God is the Judge of all the earth, but God judges angels and mankind through his Son. Scripture References: Summary Note 2 (Christ is to be the Judge) John 5:22-23 (22) For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: (23) That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. (See vv.16-21) John 5:26-27 (26) For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; (27) And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. (See vv.24-25) John 6:28-29 (28) Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? (29) Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. (See v.30) Acts 10:42 (42) And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. (See vv.39-43) Acts 17:30-31 (30) And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: (31) Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. (See vv.16-34) BTE19: The Last Judgment 14

23 3. The last judgment will take place at the second coming of Christ, and following the general resurrection. Therefore, this judgment cannot now be in progress (as is maintained by some). Nor does it take place when a person dies. Nor is it a protracted period before the general resurrection. Rather, when Christ comes, the dead (righteous and wicked) will be raised. All nations will be gathered before him. Christ will separate the righteous from the wicked as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. The sheep (the righteous) will inherit eternal life in that kingdom which has been prepared for them. The goats (the unrighteous or wicked) will be consigned to hell: that place of eternal punishment and misery that has been prepared for the devil and his angels. (Matt. 25:31-46; 2 Thess. 1:5-10; 2 Pet. 3:3-10) Scripture References: Summary Note 3 (The Last Judgment will take place at the second coming of Christ) Matthew 25:31-34 (31) When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: (32) And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: (33) And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. (34) Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: (See vv.35-40) Matthew 25:41 (41) Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: (See vv.42-45) Matthew 25:46 (46) And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10 (5) Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: (6) Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; (7) And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, (8) In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: (9) Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; (10) When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. (See vv.1-12; see also 2 Thess. 2:1ff) 2 Peter 3:3-7 (3) Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, (4) And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? BTE19: The Last Judgment 15

24 for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. (5) For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: (6) Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished. (7) But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. (See vv.1-2) 2 Peter 3:8-10 (8) But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. (9) The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (10) But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. (See vv.11-13) 4. The persons to be judged will be men and angels. In the Bible, we are told that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, and that Christ will render to every man according to his works. The final judgment, therefore, will be universal, including great and small, rich and poor. It will include everyone who has ever lived from the time of creation, to the time of the Lord s second coming. All mankind will be included in the general resurrection, and will appear before the Lord at the final judgment. Concerning fallen angels, we are told that God has delivered them into chains of darkness to be reserved for judgment. At the final judgment, these fallen angels (i.e., demons) will be consigned to that place already prepared for them, and to which lost mankind also will be consigned for all eternity. (Rom. 14:9-12; 2 Pet. 2:4-9; Jude 1:14-15) Scripture References: Summary Note 4 (The persons to be judged will be men and angels) Romans 14:9-12 (9) For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. (10) But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at naught thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. (11) For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, 7 every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. {Isaiah 45:23; cf. Phil. 2:10-11} (12) So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (See vv.1-13) 7 Heb., YHWH BTE19: The Last Judgment 16

25 2 Peter 2:4-9 (4) For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, 8 and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; (5) And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; (6) And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an example unto those that after should live ungodly; (7) And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (8) (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds); (9) The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: (See vv.1-22; cf. v.4 with Jude 1:6) Jude 1:14-15 (14) And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, (15) To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. (See vv. 3-16) 5. The ground on which the last judgment will be based, will be the deeds done in the body [i.e., while living in this present body]. Men are to be judged according to their works. (Rev. 20:13) The secrets of their hearts i.e., their innermost thoughts, intentions and attitudes are to be revealed. Men will give an account of every thought, word, and deed. They will be held to account for every careless word they have spoken. They will also be held to account for their failure to do those things that should have been done. God s judgment will not be based on a person s outward profession of faith, or on his appearance of piety or righteousness in the sight of others. Rather, it will be based on a person s true character as known only to God, and on the thoughts, attitudes, and acts that have issued from that character openly or secretly. (Matt. 12:36-37; 16:27; 1 Cor. 4:5; 2 Cor. 5:10) Scripture References: Summary Note 5 (The ground of the Last Judgment will be the deeds done while living in this present body) Matthew 12:36-37 (36) But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. (37) For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (See vv.30-35) Matthew 16:27 (27) For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. (See vv.24-28) 8 Greek, Tartarus BTE19: The Last Judgment 17

26 1 Corinthians 4:5 (5) Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. (See vv.1-7) 2 Corinthians 5:10 (10) For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. (See vv.6-9) 6. Men will be judged according to the light they had. In the Gospel of Luke, the Lord Jesus says: 47 That servant who knows his master s will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. 48 But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows (Luke 12:47-48a) In Romans, the apostle Paul says that all mankind is without excuse. They knew God by those things that could be seen. (God s eternal power and divine nature being clearly revealed to all mankind by the things that he had created.) Yet although they daily witnessed God s power and glory in the natural creation, they wilfully refused to acknowledge him as God. Therefore, in course of time, God abandoned them to the evil desires of their corrupt and sinful nature. The Scriptural principle is that those who sin without law (i.e., without a clear knowledge of God s requirements) will be judged without law (i.e., without the full rigour of the law s demands). Those, however, who have sinned with the law (i.e., fully knowing the law of God), shall be judged and condemned by that law. (Luke 12:46-48; Rom. 1:18-32; 2:12-16) Scripture References: Summary Note 6 (Men will be judged according to the light they had) Luke 12:45-48 (45) But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; (46) The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. (47) And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. (48) But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. (See vv.35-44) Romans 1:18-21 (18) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; (19) Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them. (20) For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (21) Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as BTE19: The Last Judgment 18