The concepts of forgiveness and judgment are central to the character of the LORD as revealed in the Bible. These attributes demonstrate His holiness, justice, mercy, and love. Throughout Scripture, the LORD's forgiveness and judgment are intricately connected, reflecting His desire for righteousness and reconciliation with His creation.

Forgiveness

The LORD's forgiveness is a profound expression of His mercy and grace. It is offered to those who repent and turn from their sins. In the Old Testament, the sacrificial system was established as a means for the Israelites to receive forgiveness. Leviticus 4:20 states, "And he shall do with the bull just as he did with the bull of the sin offering; thus he shall do with it. So the priest shall make atonement for them, and they will be forgiven."

The Psalms frequently celebrate the LORD's readiness to forgive. Psalm 103:12 declares, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us." This imagery underscores the completeness of God's forgiveness, emphasizing that He does not hold past sins against those who seek His mercy.

In the New Testament, the ultimate expression of the LORD's forgiveness is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus provides the means for eternal forgiveness. Ephesians 1:7 affirms, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace."

Judgment

The LORD's judgment is an expression of His righteousness and justice. It serves to uphold His moral order and to address sin and rebellion. Throughout the Bible, God's judgment is portrayed as both immediate and eschatological.

In the Old Testament, the LORD's judgment is often seen in His dealings with nations and individuals. The prophets frequently warned of impending judgment due to Israel's unfaithfulness. For example, in Jeremiah 25:31 , it is written, "The clamor will resound to the ends of the earth, for the LORD brings a charge against the nations; He brings judgment on all mankind and puts the wicked to the sword."

The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing the final judgment that will occur at the end of the age. Jesus Himself speaks of this in Matthew 25:31-32 : "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats."

Interplay of Forgiveness and Judgment

The LORD's forgiveness and judgment are not contradictory but complementary. His judgment serves as a backdrop that highlights the depth of His forgiveness. The call to repentance is a recurring theme, as seen in Ezekiel 18:30 : "Therefore, house of Israel, I will judge each of you according to your ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your offenses, so that sin will not be your downfall."

The New Testament reiterates this call, emphasizing that God's kindness leads to repentance. Romans 2:4 states, "Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance?"

Ultimately, the LORD's forgiveness and judgment reveal His desire for a restored relationship with humanity. Through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, individuals can experience the fullness of His forgiveness and be spared from the final judgment.