Definition and Overview:
Impending Judgment refers to the anticipated divine judgment that is foretold in the Bible, where God will execute justice upon the world. This concept is deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing the certainty of God's righteous judgment upon individuals and nations. It serves as a warning and a call to repentance, underscoring the holiness and justice of God.

Old Testament Context:
The theme of impending judgment is prevalent throughout the Old Testament. The prophets frequently warned Israel and surrounding nations of God's coming judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry. For instance, the prophet Isaiah speaks of a day of reckoning: "For the LORD of Hosts has a day against all that is proud and lofty, against all that is lifted up—it will be humbled" (Isaiah 2:12). Similarly, the book of Ezekiel declares, "The end is now upon you, and I will unleash My anger against you. I will judge you according to your ways and repay you for all your abominations" (Ezekiel 7:3).

New Testament Context:
In the New Testament, the concept of impending judgment is further developed with the revelation of Jesus Christ as the appointed judge. John the Baptist heralds this message, urging repentance: "The axe lies ready at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire" (Matthew 3:10). Jesus Himself speaks of the final judgment, as seen in the parable of the sheep and the goats: "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne" (Matthew 25:31).

The apostle Paul also addresses impending judgment, emphasizing the certainty and impartiality of God's justice: "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad" (2 Corinthians 5:10). The book of Revelation vividly portrays the final judgment, where the dead are judged according to their deeds: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened... The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books" (Revelation 20:12).

Theological Significance:
Impending Judgment underscores the holiness and righteousness of God, who cannot tolerate sin. It serves as a powerful motivator for repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, who offers salvation from the wrath to come. The certainty of judgment highlights the need for believers to live in obedience and readiness, as Jesus warns, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13).

Practical Implications:
For believers, the doctrine of impending judgment encourages a life of holiness and evangelism. It is a reminder of the urgency to share the gospel, as the apostle Peter writes, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise... He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). For non-believers, it serves as a solemn warning to turn to Christ for salvation before it is too late.

Conclusion:
The biblical teaching on impending judgment is a sobering reminder of God's justice and the reality of eternal consequences. It calls all people to examine their lives, repent of their sins, and place their faith in Jesus Christ, who alone can deliver from the coming wrath.