Definition:
Universal Judgment refers to the eschatological event in Christian theology where God will judge all humanity. This event is often associated with the Second Coming of Christ and the final establishment of God's kingdom. It is a time when every individual will be held accountable for their actions, and divine justice will be fully realized.

Biblical Basis:
The concept of Universal Judgment is deeply rooted in Scripture, with numerous references throughout both the Old and New Testaments. It is depicted as a future event where God will judge the living and the dead, rewarding the righteous and punishing the wicked.

Old Testament References:
The Old Testament contains several prophetic references to a day of judgment. In Ecclesiastes 12:14, it is written, "For God will bring every deed into judgment, along with every hidden thing, whether good or evil." Similarly, the prophet Daniel speaks of a time of judgment in Daniel 12:2, "And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt."

New Testament References:
The New Testament provides a more detailed exposition of Universal Judgment, particularly through the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles. In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus describes the judgment of the nations, where He will separate people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. Verse 32 states, "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."

The Apostle Paul also speaks of this event in Romans 14:10-12, "For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written: 'As surely as I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow before Me; every tongue will confess to God.' So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God."

The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of the final judgment. Revelation 20:11-15 describes the great white throne 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."

Theological Significance:
Universal Judgment underscores the holiness and justice of God. It affirms the belief that God is the ultimate judge who will right all wrongs and establish eternal justice. This doctrine serves as a moral compass for believers, encouraging them to live righteously in anticipation of the day when they will stand before God.

Implications for Believers:
For Christians, the anticipation of Universal Judgment is both sobering and hopeful. It is a reminder of the accountability each person has before God and the importance of living a life that reflects the teachings of Christ. At the same time, it offers hope for the ultimate vindication of the righteous and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom.

Conclusion:
While the exact timing and nature of Universal Judgment remain a mystery, its certainty is a foundational aspect of Christian eschatology. Believers are called to live in readiness, with faith in the redemptive work of Christ, who offers salvation and the promise of eternal life to all who trust in Him.