Divine judgment is a central theme throughout the Bible, serving as a manifestation of God's holiness, justice, and righteousness. It is an expression of God's moral governance over the universe, ensuring that sin and rebellion are addressed according to His divine standards. The purpose of divine judgment can be understood through several key aspects as revealed in Scripture.

1. Affirmation of God's Holiness and Justice

Divine judgment underscores the holiness and justice of God. In Habakkuk 1:13, it is stated, "Your eyes are too pure to look upon evil, and You cannot tolerate wrongdoing." God's nature is inherently opposed to sin, and His judgments reflect His commitment to uphold righteousness. The judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) serves as a vivid example of God's intolerance for sin and His righteous response to it.

2. Correction and Discipline

Judgment is also a means of correction and discipline for God's people. Hebrews 12:6 states, "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives." This aspect of judgment is not merely punitive but is intended to bring about repentance and restoration. The Babylonian exile of Israel is an instance where divine judgment served to correct the nation's idolatry and disobedience, ultimately leading to a renewed commitment to God.

3. Revelation of God's Sovereignty

Through divine judgment, God's sovereignty is revealed. He is the ultimate authority over all creation, and His judgments demonstrate His control over the affairs of nations and individuals. In Daniel 4:35, it is declared, "All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as He pleases with the army of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back His hand or say to Him: 'What have You done?'"

4. Vindication of the Righteous

Divine judgment serves to vindicate the righteous and uphold justice for those who have suffered under wickedness. In Psalm 37:28, it is written, "For the LORD loves justice and will not forsake His saints. They are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked will be cut off." God's judgment assures the faithful that their suffering is not in vain and that justice will ultimately prevail.

5. Fulfillment of Prophetic Promises

Judgment is often the fulfillment of prophetic promises and warnings given by God through His prophets. The prophetic literature of the Old Testament frequently contains warnings of impending judgment as a call to repentance. For instance, the prophet Jonah was sent to Nineveh to proclaim God's judgment, which led to the city's repentance and temporary reprieve (Jonah 3).

6. Establishment of God's Kingdom

Finally, divine judgment is instrumental in the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. The ultimate judgment, as depicted in Revelation, culminates in the defeat of evil and the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth. Revelation 20:12-13 describes the final judgment: "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."

In summary, divine judgment is multifaceted, serving to affirm God's holiness, correct and discipline, reveal His sovereignty, vindicate the righteous, fulfill prophetic promises, and establish His eternal kingdom. Through judgment, God demonstrates His unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness, ensuring that His divine purposes are ultimately fulfilled.