The Judgment in Process Now
Last week’s article gave a Biblical picture of the seating of the judgment that will determine the fate of every person.
“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” (Daniel 7:10).
The books that are opened contain the life record of every person and will be the determining factor used in making the final judgment call. It begins with the dead, Able, the first person to die, and ends with the living, at which time Jesus will announce its close.
“He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be” (Revelation 22:11, 12).
This most solemn announcement reveals a very important truth that many are unaware of, namely, the judgment takes place before Jesus returns and thus enables Him to know and reward every man according as his work shall be, at His coming.
As with earthly tribunals the heavenly judgment also has two phases, investigative, which determines guilt or innocence, and executive, declaring and executing the verdict. Does a prejudgment prior to His coming indicate the investigative phase is taking place right now? As can be seen in the last day warning, which accompanies the everlasting gospel to be given to the world, yes.
“And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters” (Revelation 14:6, 7).
The angel preaching the everlasting gospel is symbolic of the church, which has been given this work (Mark 16:14, 15). In order to proclaim this accompanying message we must know when it began. Next week, pinpointing the beginning of the judgment.