Resurrection

The concept of resurrection is a central tenet of Christian theology, signifying the act of rising from the dead. It is most prominently exemplified in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is foundational to Christian faith. The resurrection is seen as the ultimate victory over sin and death, affirming the promise of eternal life for believers.

The Old Testament contains early hints of resurrection belief. For instance, Job expresses hope in a future resurrection: "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God" (Job 19:25-26). Similarly, Daniel prophesies a future resurrection: "Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt" (Daniel 12:2).

In the New Testament, the resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of the Gospel message. The Apostle Paul emphasizes its importance in 1 Corinthians 15:14, stating, "And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith" . The resurrection is not only a historical event but also a promise of future resurrection for all believers. Paul further explains, "For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive" (1 Corinthians 15:22).

The resurrection is also linked to the believer's spiritual transformation. In Romans 6:4, Paul writes, "We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life" . This signifies that believers are called to live a resurrected life, characterized by righteousness and holiness.

Judgment

Judgment is a fundamental aspect of Christian eschatology, referring to the divine assessment of humanity's deeds. It is depicted as a future event where God will judge the living and the dead, rewarding the righteous and punishing the wicked.

The Old Testament frequently speaks of God's judgment as both immediate and eschatological. Ecclesiastes 12:14 declares, "For God will bring every deed into judgment, along with every hidden thing, whether good or evil" . This underscores the comprehensive nature of divine judgment.

In the New Testament, Jesus speaks extensively about judgment. In Matthew 25:31-46, He describes the final judgment as a separation of the righteous from the unrighteous, akin to a shepherd separating sheep from goats. The righteous are invited to inherit the kingdom, while the unrighteous face eternal punishment.

The Apostle Paul also addresses judgment, emphasizing that it is based on God's righteousness. In Romans 2:6-8, he writes, "God 'will repay each one according to his deeds.' To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow wickedness, there will be wrath and anger" .

The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of the final judgment. Revelation 20:12-13 describes the dead being judged according to their works, as recorded in the books: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books" .

Judgment is ultimately seen as an expression of God's justice and holiness, ensuring that righteousness prevails and that evil is addressed. It serves as a call for believers to live in accordance with God's will, knowing that their actions have eternal significance.