The Judgment before the Great White Throne is a pivotal eschatological event described in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 20:11-15. This event is understood to occur after the millennial reign of Christ and before the creation of the new heaven and new earth. It is a time when all the dead, great and small, stand before God to be judged according to their deeds.

Biblical Description:

Revelation 20:11-15 provides the primary scriptural basis for this event:

"Then I saw a great white throne and the One seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne. And there were open books, and one of them was the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books. The sea gave up its dead, and Death and Hades gave up their dead, and each one was judged according to his deeds. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death—the lake of fire. And if anyone was found whose name was not written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."

Theological Significance:

1. The Great White Throne: The throne is described as "great" and "white," symbolizing the majesty and purity of God's judgment. The One seated on the throne is understood to be God Himself, executing final judgment.

2. The Books and the Book of Life: The passage mentions multiple books, which contain the records of human deeds. The Book of Life is distinct and contains the names of those who have eternal life. The presence of these books underscores the comprehensive and just nature of God's judgment.

3. The Dead, Great and Small: This phrase indicates the universality of the judgment. All individuals, regardless of status or power, will stand before the throne. This emphasizes the impartiality of God's justice.

4. Judgment According to Deeds: The dead are judged based on their actions as recorded in the books. This reflects the biblical principle that deeds are evidence of one's faith and relationship with God (cf. James 2:14-26).

5. The Second Death: The lake of fire is described as the "second death," representing eternal separation from God. Those not found in the Book of Life face this ultimate consequence.

Interpretations and Implications:

· Eternal Justice: The Great White Throne Judgment is seen as the final affirmation of God's justice. It assures believers that evil will be fully and finally dealt with, and righteousness will be vindicated.

· The Role of Faith and Works: While salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), this judgment highlights the importance of works as evidence of genuine faith. The deeds recorded in the books serve as a testament to one's life and choices.

· The Finality of Judgment: This event marks the end of human history as we know it and the beginning of eternity. It underscores the urgency of repentance and faith in Christ, as the opportunity for salvation is limited to this life.

· The Assurance for Believers: For those whose names are written in the Book of Life, this judgment is not a cause for fear but a confirmation of their eternal destiny with God.

The Judgment before the Great White Throne remains a solemn reminder of the reality of divine judgment and the eternal consequences of one's response to God's offer of salvation through Jesus Christ.