The Final Judgment, also known as the Great White Throne Judgment, is a key eschatological event described in the Bible. This judgment is believed to be the final and irrevocable determination of each individual’s eternal fate based on their actions, their response to Christ, and whether or not they have accepted the salvation offered through Him. The doctrine of the Final Judgment is particularly emphasized in the book of Revelation, where John describes a scene of great significance in which all individuals are judged before the throne of God.
In this analysis, we will look at at least 8 scriptures for the doctrine of the Final Judgment and 8 scriptures against it. The positions of various Christian denominations will be summarized afterward.
Scriptures For the Doctrine of the Final Judgment
- Revelation 20:11-12 (KJV)
“And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”
Interpretation: This is the most explicit description of the Great White Throne Judgment. The dead stand before God, and the books, including the Book of Life, are opened to judge everyone based on their deeds.
Theological View: This passage is central to the doctrine of the Final Judgment. It emphasizes that all will be judged according to their works, and those not found in the Book of Life will face eternal separation from God. - Matthew 25:31-32 (KJV)
“When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats.”
Interpretation: Jesus speaks about the separation of the righteous (the sheep) from the wicked (the goats) in the context of the final judgment.
Theological View: This passage supports the idea that there will be a final division based on the deeds of individuals, where the righteous inherit eternal life and the wicked are condemned. - 2 Corinthians 5:10 (KJV)
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.”
Interpretation: This verse speaks to the judgment that believers will face, where they will be rewarded or disciplined for their actions during their lives.
Theological View: This judgment is a necessary part of God’s justice, where individuals will receive recompense for their deeds, whether for good or evil. - John 5:28-29 (KJV)
“Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.”
Interpretation: This passage indicates a twofold resurrection: one for the righteous unto eternal life, and one for the wicked unto condemnation.
Theological View: This supports the concept of a final judgment where everyone will face either eternal life or damnation based on their deeds. - Romans 14:10-12 (KJV)
“But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”
Interpretation: Every individual will have to give an account of their life to God. This affirms that judgment is inevitable for all.
Theological View: This passage underlines personal accountability and the certainty of the final judgment. - Revelation 20:13 (KJV)
“And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.”
Interpretation: This verse reinforces the idea that everyone, regardless of where they have died, will be resurrected and judged.
Theological View: It emphasizes that judgment is universal and comprehensive, involving all people, whether they have died at sea, in the grave, or in hell. - Acts 17:31 (KJV)
“Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.”
Interpretation: God has set a specific day for the judgment of the world, and it will be carried out through Jesus Christ, who was raised from the dead.
Theological View: This reinforces that the judgment will be executed by Christ and that all of humanity is assured of this judgment because of His resurrection. - Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)
“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.”
Interpretation: This passage asserts the certainty of judgment after death, affirming the doctrine of the Final Judgment.
Theological View: The inevitability of judgment is highlighted here, indicating that after death, there is no further opportunity for repentance or change.
Scriptures Against the Doctrine of the Final Judgment
- Ecclesiastes 3:19-20 (KJV)
“For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again.”
Interpretation: This suggests a naturalistic view, indicating that humans and animals share a similar fate in death, with no distinction.
Theological View: Some interpret this to imply that after death, there is no further judgment, focusing on the idea that all life ends in death and decay without an afterlife. - Psalm 146:4 (KJV)
“His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish.”
Interpretation: This suggests that upon death, human thoughts and consciousness cease.
Theological View: This is sometimes cited in arguments against a conscious afterlife or Final Judgment, as it emphasizes the end of thought and existence at death. - Isaiah 26:14 (KJV)
“They are dead, they shall not live; they are deceased, they shall not rise: therefore hast thou visited and destroyed them, and made all their memory to perish.”
Interpretation: This verse is interpreted by some as implying that the wicked will not rise again, effectively ending their existence.
Theological View: A position based on this verse holds that there is no future judgment or resurrection for the wicked. - Romans 6:23 (KJV)
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Interpretation: The contrast between death and eternal life is significant here. Some interpret “death” as total cessation, not leading to a subsequent judgment.
Theological View: This verse is sometimes understood to suggest that death is the final consequence of sin, without further judgment or eternal separation. - 1 Corinthians 15:22-23 (KJV)
“For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.”
Interpretation: This suggests a universal resurrection, with no clear indication of a judgment at a later time.
Theological View: This passage can be understood to imply a single, final resurrection with no additional judgment necessary. - Matthew 12:36 (KJV)
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”
Interpretation: While this appears to support the doctrine, it also raises questions about the nature of judgment, which some interpret as already having occurred with Christ’s sacrifice.
Theological View: Some argue this may refer to immediate consequences rather than a distant, Final Judgment. - 2 Thessalonians 2:8 (KJV)
“And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.”
Interpretation: This passage suggests a final judgment at the coming of Christ, but the specifics of the judgment are unclear.
Theological View: Some interpret this as a judgment already fulfilled in Christ’s work rather than a future event. - Revelation 21:4 (KJV)
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
Interpretation: This verse points to the ultimate victory over sin and death, which some interpret as rendering a separate judgment unnecessary.
Theological View: This can be seen as signaling the end of judgment, where all things are made new, and no further condemnation exists.
Language, Translation Issues, and Theological Debates
The doctrine of the Final Judgment, especially as it pertains to translations of key scriptures, has been the subject of much theological and linguistic debate. The English translations, especially the King James Version (KJV), are based on Greek and Hebrew manuscripts. The analysis of these scriptures, alongside a careful look at the original languages (Greek and Hebrew), reveals key challenges in translation, theological views, and issues of accuracy.
Key Scriptures in the Original Languages
- Revelation 20:11-12 (KJV)
“And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” (KJV) Greek Analysis:- Thronos (θρόνος) – The word for “throne” appears in Revelation 20:11, signifying a place of authority and judgment.
- Biblion (βιβλίον) – The term for “books” is plural, indicating multiple records or volumes. This has led to debates about the nature of these “books” and whether they refer to literal records or metaphorical representations of deeds.
- Matthew 25:31-32 (KJV)
“When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats.” (KJV) Greek Analysis:- Thronos (θρόνος) – Again, this word for “throne” appears, highlighting the authority of the figure who presides over the judgment.
- Ethne (ἔθνη) – The word for “nations” is plural, referring to all people across the earth, not just a specific group.
- Dichazo (διχάζω) – The verb for “separate” here indicates a final division of people, an irrevocable action that some scholars argue suggests a metaphor for judgment.
- 2 Corinthians 5:10 (KJV)
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” (KJV) Greek Analysis:- Bema (βῆμα) – The term for “judgment seat” refers to a platform or place of judicial review, commonly used in the context of public tribunals.
- Krinō (κρίνω) – The verb for “judge” indicates a thorough, legal judgment process, used in both secular and religious contexts.
- John 5:28-29 (KJV)
“Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” (KJV) Greek Analysis:- Mnaēma (μνῆμα) – Refers to a “memorial” or “grave,” implying the physical resurrection of the body.
- Anastasis (ἀνάστασις) – The word for “resurrection” is used in the New Testament to refer specifically to the resurrection of the dead at the end of time.
Translation Issues: Problems and Considerations
- Language Barriers (Greek to English): The Greek language often contains nuances that are difficult to convey in English. Words like krima (κριμά) – “judgment,” bema (βῆμα) – “judgment seat,” and thronos (θρόνος) – “throne” have deep judicial implications, but in English, they might not fully capture the weight of divine, eternal judgment. The word krima, for example, refers not just to a judicial ruling but to a process of divine decision that some translations fail to fully encapsulate.
- Context of “Books” in Revelation 20: The use of “books” in Revelation 20:12 has been debated. Some translations render biblia (βιβλία) as “books,” but the actual Greek suggests that these are “divine records,” which could symbolize a broader metaphysical reality. In modern translations, such as the NIV, this is often rendered as “opened,” without specifying the nature of the books, which could lead to different theological conclusions.
- Translation of “Resurrection”: The word anastasis (ἀνάστασις), traditionally translated as “resurrection,” refers to both the resurrection of the righteous and the wicked. However, translations sometimes fail to fully communicate the dual nature of this resurrection, particularly in the KJV where the terms “resurrection of life” and “resurrection of damnation” are used without elaborating on the nature of the “damnation.”
- Throne Language in Judgment: The repeated use of thronos (θρόνος) throughout key texts relating to judgment (Revelation 20, Matthew 25, 2 Corinthians 5) presents challenges in translation, particularly regarding the nature of Christ’s authority. The KJV uses “throne of glory,” which conveys an image of Christ’s sovereignty, but other translations sometimes use terms like “judgment seat” or “judgment throne,” which might change the perceived significance of the throne.
Theological Views on Translation and Judgment
- Literal vs. Symbolic Interpretation: Different translations can lead to different theological views. For example, some theological traditions emphasize the literal nature of the Final Judgment, while others view it more symbolically. The interpretation of thronos as a literal throne of God versus a symbolic throne representing divine authority can shape one’s understanding of the Final Judgment.
- Universalism vs. Exclusivism: Some translators, particularly in more liberal circles, may lean toward interpretations that support universal reconciliation (Universalism), where all people will ultimately be saved. Others (e.g., Evangelicals, Catholics) argue for exclusivism, where only the righteous will be saved through Christ, and the wicked will face eternal judgment.
- Purgatory and Judgment: In Catholic theology, the Final Judgment includes not just the eternal judgment of the dead but also an intermediary period of purification (Purgatory). The translation of judgment terms like krima and krisis has been debated here, as some believe these terms imply an immediate postmortem judgment while others believe in a purification process.
- The Doctrine of Works: The KJV’s focus on deeds—“according to their works” in Revelation 20:12—has raised the question of salvation by works versus salvation by grace. Protestant denominations emphasize that salvation is by grace alone, yet the KJV strongly ties judgment to actions, which complicates theological positions on grace and works.
How Accurate Are Greek Translations?
Greek manuscripts, especially those of the New Testament, have been preserved with relatively high accuracy, though variations exist between different manuscript families (e.g., Alexandrian vs. Byzantine text types). The challenge in translating these texts into English lies in the depth and nuance of Greek vocabulary, which often does not have direct equivalents in English. The KJV translators worked from available manuscripts, some of which are no longer the primary sources for modern translations.
- Accuracy of the KJV: The KJV is considered an accurate translation for its time, but it is based on later manuscripts than some of the critical editions used today (e.g., the Nestle-Aland 28th edition). Some modern translations benefit from more reliable manuscript evidence and better understanding of Greek and Hebrew syntax.
- Translation Philosophy: The KJV often uses formal equivalence (word-for-word translation), which retains the original structure but may lead to less clarity in modern English. Some newer translations, such as the ESV or NIV, use dynamic equivalence (thought-for-thought), which may communicate the message more clearly but can lose some of the specific linguistic richness found in the original languages.
Summary
The doctrine of the Final Judgment is deeply embedded in both the Greek and Hebrew traditions, with specific terms like thronos, krima, and anastasis playing key roles in theological discussions. The accuracy of translations such as the KJV has sparked debates over the true nature of judgment, works, and salvation. Theological differences, particularly regarding salvation by grace versus works, are shaped by how these terms are translated. Furthermore, the complex language of judgment, resurrection, and authority has led to various interpretations across denominations. While the KJV remains a cornerstone for traditional Christian readings, modern translations often provide more nuanced understandings based on newer manuscript evidence and linguistic studies.
Denominational Views
1. Roman Catholic Church
Summary: The Roman Catholic Church teaches that the Final Judgment is an event that occurs at the end of time when all people, both living and dead, are judged by Christ. The Catholic Church holds that individuals will be judged based on their faith and works, with some receiving eternal life and others eternal damnation. The doctrine also includes an intermediate state of purification, known as Purgatory, for those who die in a state of grace but still need purification before entering Heaven.
Views with Debates:
- For the doctrine of works in judgment: The Catholic Church emphasizes that salvation involves both faith and works, citing verses like James 2:24, which says, “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.” (KJV).
- Against the doctrine of works in judgment: Protestants often counter this view, arguing that salvation is by grace alone through faith, as in Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (KJV). They see the Catholic understanding of works as undermining the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice.
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Thronos (θρόνος) – In Revelation 20:11, the term “throne” refers to the place of Christ’s sovereign judgment. The Catholic view places significant importance on this as a symbol of Christ’s ultimate authority.
- Krinō (κρίνω) – “To judge” in Greek, used throughout the New Testament, emphasizes a final judicial act where deeds are assessed. Catholic theology underscores the use of “works” to qualify one for Heaven or Hell, seeing judgment as comprehensive.
2. Eastern Orthodox Church
Summary: The Eastern Orthodox Church shares a similar view with the Roman Catholic Church regarding the Final Judgment but places a stronger emphasis on the transformative aspect of salvation. The Orthodox believe that the judgment is about the purification of the soul and the ultimate union with God. They reject the notion of Purgatory as a separate state and focus on the final and complete purification at the judgment seat of Christ.
Views with Debates:
- For the transformative purification: Orthodox theologians argue that salvation is a process of theosis, or divinization, and that judgment is about refining the soul to become fully united with God. They refer to 2 Corinthians 5:10, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ…” (KJV), as a means of showing that the judgment is not just punitive but also purifying.
- Against the transformative purification: Protestant groups often argue against the Orthodox idea of theosis, stressing that judgment is a final decision regarding salvation and that no further purification occurs after death, based on Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” (KJV).
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Anastasis (ἀνάστασις) – Refers to resurrection, used in John 5:29, where Christ mentions a resurrection “to life” and “to damnation.” The Orthodox interpret this as part of the ultimate process of transformation for those deemed worthy.
- Bema (βῆμα) – The term for “judgment seat” indicates a place of divine evaluation, with the judgment at this seat being final and decisive for eternal destiny.
3. Evangelical
Summary: Evangelicals hold to a literal interpretation of the Final Judgment, seeing it as a point in time where Christ will judge both the living and the dead. The judgment is based solely on one’s faith in Jesus Christ, not on works, and those who are not found in the Book of Life will be cast into eternal punishment.
Views with Debates:
- For salvation through faith: Evangelicals strongly support the idea that judgment is based on faith in Christ alone, citing passages such as John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (KJV).
- Against salvation by works: They reject the notion that works play a role in salvation, contrasting with the Catholic and Orthodox positions. This is highlighted in Romans 3:28, “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV).
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Krisis (κρίσις) – The word for “judgment” used in John 5:29 and Revelation 20:12. Evangelicals emphasize that this judgment is a final and irreversible decision, often citing the finality in Christ’s words.
- Thronos (θρόνος) – The throne of judgment emphasizes Christ’s authority over all creation.
4. Protestant (General)
Summary: General Protestant theology is similar to Evangelical views, emphasizing that salvation is by faith alone and judgment is based on whether one has received Christ. However, there are variations in the understanding of how this judgment will unfold, with some denominations emphasizing a more symbolic understanding of the judgment.
Views with Debates:
- For justification by faith: Similar to Evangelicals, they emphasize salvation through faith, citing Romans 5:1, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (KJV).
- Against works-based salvation: They argue against a works-based judgment, as emphasized in Romans 4:5, “But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” (KJV).
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Bema (βῆμα) – The judgment seat of Christ, where all believers stand to give an account, is often understood as a place where rewards or loss of rewards are determined for Christians.
5. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)
Summary: Baptists firmly believe in the doctrine of individual salvation by faith in Christ alone, and the Final Judgment is understood as a moment of reckoning where those who have not trusted in Jesus will face eternal punishment. Baptists hold to a premillennial view, with the judgment occurring after the Tribulation.
Views with Debates:
- For salvation by faith: Baptists heavily stress salvation by faith alone, quoting John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (KJV).
- Against a post-tribulation judgment: Some other Protestant groups, like those in the Reformed tradition, debate the timing of the judgment, with Baptists maintaining that it follows the millennial reign, whereas others hold that judgment occurs immediately after death.
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Krinō (κρίνω) – “To judge” in Greek signifies a final decision, with no second chances. Baptists emphasize that there will be no further opportunity for salvation after death.
6. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)
Summary: Methodists believe that the Final Judgment is a time when all individuals will be judged by Christ according to their deeds, with those who have accepted Christ being rewarded with eternal life and those who reject Him facing eternal punishment. Methodism teaches that works matter, but faith in Christ is paramount.
Views with Debates:
- For a judgment based on deeds: Methodists emphasize the need for a holy life as evidence of one’s salvation. This is supported by Matthew 25:31-46, where the righteous are rewarded based on their deeds.
- Against salvation by works: Reformed Protestants counter, focusing on passages like Ephesians 2:8-9, emphasizing that salvation is a gift of grace, not the result of works.
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Anastasis (ἀνάστασις) – The resurrection of the dead for judgment, which is foundational to the Methodist view that all will be resurrected to face judgment.
7. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)
Summary: Lutherans believe in the Final Judgment, with Christ as the judge who will determine who is saved and who is condemned. They hold that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone and that judgment will be based on whether one has trusted in Christ’s righteousness.
Views with Debates:
- For justification by faith: Lutherans stress that judgment will be based on the righteousness of Christ, not personal works. They cite Romans 5:1, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (KJV).
- Against works righteousness: They reject any notion that works can contribute to salvation, focusing instead on the imputed righteousness of Christ.
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Krisis (κρίσις) – This term is pivotal in Lutheran theology as it represents the final judicial determination made by Christ, emphasizing His authority over human salvation.
8. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)
Summary: Pentecostals teach that the Final Judgment will be a time when all individuals will be judged by Christ. They hold a premillennial view of Christ’s return and see the judgment as confirming the eternal destiny of individuals based on their faith in Christ and the actions of their lives.
Views with Debates:
- For salvation through Christ: Pentecostals emphasize personal salvation and the need for the Holy Spirit, citing John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (KJV).
- Against works-based salvation: While Pentecostals emphasize holiness, they reject the idea that works alone can save, focusing on faith as the means of salvation.
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Thronos (θρόνος) – The throne of judgment is seen as Christ’s seat of authority, emphasizing His power to judge the living and the dead.
9. Jehovah’s Witnesses
Summary: Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that the Final Judgment will occur after Armageddon, when Christ will judge humanity based on their adherence to Jehovah’s will. Those who have obeyed Jehovah will live forever on a paradise earth, while those who have not will be annihilated.
Views with Debates:
- For a future judgment based on obedience: Jehovah’s Witnesses cite Revelation 20:12, “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God…” (KJV), to support their view of a judgment based on works.
- Against traditional views of eternal punishment: They argue that the wicked will not suffer eternal torment but will be destroyed, citing passages like Ezekiel 18:4, “The soul that sinneth, it shall die.” (KJV).
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Apollumi (ἀπόλλυμι) – The Greek term for “destroy” is central to their interpretation of annihilation. They argue that the wicked are completely destroyed, not eternally punished.
10. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS)
Summary: Mormons believe in a judgment where individuals are judged based on their works and faith. However, they also hold to a doctrine of multiple degrees of glory, where individuals will be assigned to different heavenly realms based on their actions and level of faithfulness.
Views with Debates:
- For works-based salvation: The LDS church stresses that salvation is based on faith, works, and adherence to the commandments. They cite Matthew 25:31-46, “And before him shall be gathered all nations…” (KJV), as a basis for the judgment based on actions.
- Against the exclusivity of salvation: Some Christians argue against the LDS understanding of multiple degrees of glory, emphasizing passages like John 14:6.
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Krinō (κρίνω) – The LDS interpretation of judgment involves a detailed accounting of deeds, a concept found in the Greek verb for “to judge.”
11. Seventh-day Adventist
Summary: Seventh-day Adventists believe that the Final Judgment is part of a larger investigative judgment that began in 1844. They emphasize that Christ’s judgment will be based on the record of one’s life, with a focus on the observance of God’s commandments, including the Sabbath.
Views with Debates:
- For investigative judgment: They cite Revelation 14:7, “Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come…” (KJV), interpreting this as indicating a pre-advent judgment.
- Against the investigative judgment: Other Christian denominations argue that judgment is a single event at the Second Coming, citing Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” (KJV).
Hebrew/Greek Word Studies:
- Bema (βῆμα) – This term for the judgment seat is used to illustrate the Adventist view that judgment occurs in stages, not as a single event.
Summary
The doctrine of the Final Judgment, while shared across many Christian denominations, is interpreted in various ways depending on the theological framework and understanding of key scriptural passages. Differences arise in views on the nature of works, faith, and grace, as well as the role of judgment in salvation. Through a deep analysis of the Greek and Hebrew terms, such as thronos, krima, anastasis, and bema, it becomes clear that while the KJV offers a consistent translation, the underlying nuances of these terms continue to shape doctrinal positions. Whether it is the Catholic view of Purgatory, the Evangelical emphasis on faith, or the Adventist belief in an investigative judgment, the language of Scripture guides each denomination’s understanding of the Final Judgment.
Table 1: Denominations – Views on the Final Judgment
| Denomination | View | Interpretation | Scripture Basis (For) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | Judgment based on both faith and works, with purification (Purgatory). | Salvation involves faith and works, with Purgatory as an intermediate state for purification. | James 2:24, “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.” (KJV) |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | Transformative judgment for ultimate union with God. | Judgment is seen as a transformative process of theosis, not just punitive but purifying. | 2 Corinthians 5:10, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ…” (KJV) |
| Evangelical | Judgment based solely on faith in Christ. | Salvation is by grace alone through faith; judgment will be based on whether one has accepted Christ. | John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (KJV) |
| Protestant (General) | Faith alone in Christ for salvation, final judgment is decisive. | Emphasizes salvation by faith, contrasting works-based salvation, and sees judgment as final. | Romans 3:28, “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV) |
| Baptist (All types) | Salvation by faith alone; judgment after the Tribulation. | Baptists emphasize individual faith in Christ, with works not contributing to salvation. | John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…” (KJV) |
| Methodist | Salvation involves both faith and holy living. | Judgment will consider both faith in Christ and a holy life lived through the Spirit. | Matthew 25:31-46, “When the Son of man shall come in his glory…” (KJV) |
| Lutheran | Faith in Christ alone for salvation; no works can earn salvation. | Lutheran view is based on Christ’s righteousness being imputed to believers, with judgment focusing on Christ’s work. | Romans 5:1, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (KJV) |
| Pentecostal | Salvation by faith, but holiness is emphasized. | Pentecostals believe in the necessity of living a holy life and being filled with the Spirit, judgment confirms this. | John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (KJV) |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | Judgment based on works, and eternal destruction for the wicked. | The wicked are annihilated, and only Jehovah’s Witnesses will remain to live on Earth. | Revelation 20:12, “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God…” (KJV) |
| Mormonism | Judgment based on works, faith, and multiple degrees of glory. | The final judgment assigns people to different heavenly realms based on faithfulness and works. | Matthew 25:31-46, “When the Son of man shall come in his glory…” (KJV) |
| Seventh-day Adventist | Investigative judgment before Christ’s return, salvation by grace. | Adventists believe in an investigative judgment that began in 1844, with a focus on the observance of God’s commandments. | Revelation 14:7, “Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come…” (KJV) |
Table 2: Denominations – Arguments Against the Final Judgment Interpretation
| Denomination | Argument Against Interpretation | Scripture Basis (Against) |
|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | Works-based salvation conflicts with the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice. | Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” (KJV) |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | Theosis as transformation contrasts with the view of immediate judgment after death. | Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” (KJV) |
| Evangelical | Works do not play a role in final salvation; it’s by faith alone. | Romans 4:5, “But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” (KJV) |
| Protestant (General) | Judgment is not based on works but on faith alone, rejecting salvation by works. | Romans 3:28, “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV) |
| Baptist (All types) | The judgment is not a post-tribulation event, but happens immediately after death. | Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” (KJV) |
| Methodist | Salvation is by grace, not based on works, conflicting with emphasis on holy living. | Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” (KJV) |
| Lutheran | Righteousness comes through Christ, not through individual works. | Romans 4:5, “But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” (KJV) |
| Pentecostal | Works are not the basis for salvation; judgment is based on faith alone. | Romans 3:28, “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (KJV) |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | Annihilation contradicts the eternal nature of the soul and punishment in Scripture. | Matthew 25:46, “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” (KJV) |
| Mormonism | Multiple degrees of glory are not supported by Scripture. | John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (KJV) |
| Seventh-day Adventist | The concept of investigative judgment contradicts the idea of immediate judgment after death. | Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” (KJV) |
Summary
The Final Judgment doctrine, though shared across Christianity, displays a range of interpretations depending on theological frameworks. While the KJV Bible remains a key source for understanding the scriptural basis for judgment, differences emerge in the translation and application of certain terms, particularly krima, krisis, thronos, and bema. Some denominations stress faith alone for salvation, while others place emphasis on works, transformation, or even an investigative judgment. Each position draws on particular scriptures to support its view, while others counter these interpretations with scriptural quotes that suggest different understandings of salvation and judgment. Ultimately, these differences underscore the diversity within Christianity on how God’s final judgment will unfold.