JESUS, JUDGE
In the New Testament, Jesus is depicted not only as the Savior but also as the ultimate Judge of humanity. Jesus Himself emphasized this role when He told His disciples, “The Father judges no one, but He has entrusted all judgment to the Son” (Jn 5:22). This statement underscores the unique relationship between the Father and the Son, where the Father delegates the authority to judge to Jesus, who was sent to redeem the world.
Apostolic Affirmation
Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, affirmed Jesus’ role as Judge when he said, “He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that He is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead” (Acts 10:42). This declaration highlights that Jesus’ authority to judge is a divine appointment recognized and proclaimed by the apostles. Jesus’ role as the “Son of Man” further justifies His authority to judge, emphasizing His unique position in God’s salvific plan (Jn 5:27).
Paul also emphasized this role when addressing the Athenians at the Areopagus, stating, “God has overlooked the times of ignorance, but now He demands that all people everywhere repent because He has established a day on which He will judge the world with justice through a man He has appointed, and He has provided confirmation for all by raising Him from the dead” (Acts 17:30-31). This highlights the urgency of repentance and the certainty of judgment, anchored in the resurrection of Jesus as the confirmation of His appointed role.
BIBLICAL UNDERSTANDING OF JUDGMENT
In the Biblical context, judgment extends beyond mere reward or punishment to encompass administration and governance. The Hebrew term “shofet,” translated as “judge,” conveys the idea of a ruler or deliverer. Before Israel had kings, judges such as Samson, Deborah, and Gideon saved Israel from their enemies and governed the people on behalf of God.
The Father’s sharing of His authority with Jesus to govern humanity signifies the equality and unity between the Father and the Son. Jesus currently governs humanity through His Church and will do so directly upon His second coming. At that time, He will judge the world, separating the righteous from the wicked, establishing His reign of justice and peace.
REFLECTION
Understanding Jesus as the Judge should instill in us a sense of accountability. God, through Jesus, demands repentance and offers forgiveness. Our lives should be a continual conversion, aligning our actions with His teachings. Knowing that Jesus will judge the living and the dead should motivate us to live in a manner worthy of His calling.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live justly, reflecting the justice of our Judge. This means advocating for the oppressed, living with integrity, and upholding truth and righteousness in all aspects of our lives. Our actions should mirror the compassion and justice of Jesus.
The role of Jesus as Judge also brings hope. His judgment is not arbitrary but based on divine justice and mercy. For those who follow Him, this judgment assures eternal life and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It provides comfort knowing that our Judge understands our struggles and judges with perfect knowledge and love.
Like the apostles, we are commissioned to testify about Jesus’ role as the appointed Judge. This involves sharing the Gospel, encouraging others to repent, and living as examples of Christ’s transformative power. Our mission is to lead others to the saving knowledge of Jesus, emphasizing both His mercy and His role as the righteous Judge.
Recognizing Jesus as the Judge entrusted with divine authority by the Father should profoundly impact our faith and daily living. Let us strive to live lives worthy of His calling, reflecting His justice, mercy, and love. By doing so, we honor the trust placed in Him by the Father and prepare ourselves for the day when He will return to judge the world with righteousness. In the name of Jesus, let us commit to a life of faith, hope, and love, knowing that our eternal destiny rests in the hands of the One who loves us beyond measure.