SA19 - What Do We Know
About Jehovah’s Future Judgments?
We can be certain that Jehovah’s future judgments will be righteous and just. As Bible prophecy unfolds daily, Jehovah helps us gain a clearer understanding of upcoming events, ensuring we will be prepared for the great tribulation. However, there are still aspects of the future we do not know, which this article addresses, along with reaffirming what we do know about Jehovah's actions.
Key Scripture
- Jehovah does not desire anyone to be destroyed (2 Peter 3:9).
- Jehovah’s future judgments will be righteous and just.
Current Times and Prophecy
- Bible prophecies are being fulfilled today.
- Examples include the struggle for world dominance between "the king of the north" and "the king of the south" (Daniel 11:40).
- The good news of God’s Kingdom is being preached on an unprecedented scale (Isaiah 60:22; Matthew 24:14).
Understanding Major Events
- Jehovah provides clearer understanding of future events (Proverbs 4:18; Daniel 2:28).
- We will know what we need to endure the great tribulation.
- Some aspects of the future remain unknown.
WHAT WE DO NOT KNOW
Reevaluation of Past Beliefs
- Previous belief: No unbelievers could be saved after the start of the great tribulation.
- This was based on the account of the Flood as a prophetic type (Matthew 24:37-39).
- This view has been reconsidered due to lack of direct Scriptural support.
Lessons from Noah’s Account
- Noah showed faith by building the ark (Hebrews 11:7; 1 Peter 3:20).
- Modern believers must act on the good news of God’s Kingdom (Acts 3:17-20).
- Global preaching work is significant but cannot reach everyone before the end.
Scope of Preaching Work
- Jesus foretold the preaching of the good news in all inhabited earth (Matthew 24:14).
- Despite extensive efforts, not everyone will hear the message before the end (Matthew 10:23; 25:31-33).
- Some may live in areas where preaching is restricted or inaccessible.
Future Judgments
- Jehovah desires all to attain repentance, but not all will hear the good news before the tribulation (2 Peter 3:9; 1 Timothy 2:4).
- Jehovah has revealed some future actions, like the resurrection of the unrighteous (Acts 24:15; Luke 23:42-43).
- It is unclear whether all who die during the great tribulation will be resurrected.
WHAT WE DO KNOW
- Armageddon will judge people based on their treatment of Christ’s brothers (Matthew 25:40).
- Some honest-hearted individuals may still support Christ’s brothers during the tribulation.
- Those witnessing the destruction of Babylon the Great might have a change of heart.
Mercy and Compassion
- Jehovah is merciful and compassionate, reflecting in his judgments (Exodus 34:6).
- We should welcome any who turn to Jehovah during the tribulation, similar to the Exodus "vast mixed company" (Exodus 12:38).
Eternal Future
- A person’s eternal future does not depend on when or where they die (Psalm 33:4-5; Genesis 18:25).
- Jehovah’s judgments are just and righteous, even for those in unreachable areas (Matthew 25:46; Ezekiel 38:16).
Conclusion
- Jehovah values human life immensely, giving his Son for our salvation (John 3:16; Isaiah 49:15).
- We can trust Jehovah to judge each individual righteously and mercifully (James 2:13).
- These clarifications emphasize the urgency of preaching the good news.
Thank you for reading,
-Soli Jehova Gloria (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Do you have a comment that did not get mentioned during the Watchtower study? What encouraging observations would you like to point out? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
9 comments
I just realized how positive every WT is – the faithful and discreet slave appointed by the master over his domestics, really gives us the food at the proper time? – Matthew 24:45
It’s always great waking up to the Crossword and Summary. Exciting times we’re living in, to be able to get these clarification over the past two weeks really inspires me because sometimes I feel overwhelmed by the many many people we haven’t reached. I’ll admit, I live in a bubble, and when I hear that someone hasn’t heard of Jehovah’s Witnesses I’m really shocked. Like at my job. I was training a new intern, it was her birthday, so I asked her how old she became, we talked about her plans to go out with friends to celebrate but never I wished her a happy birthday. She asked why and I explained, concluding with being a Jehovah’s Witness, she said, what’s that? I was floored! There are so many out there that still need to be reached, far too many for us to get to before the great tribulation. This article helped me realize that our efforts, no matter how small they seem, are part of a bigger picture. Jehovah’s fairness and mercy towards all people, even those in remote areas, is truly comforting.
Живя в районе, где проповедническая деятельность ограничена, я часто беспокоюсь о тех, кто не может услышать благую весть. Уверенность в том, что Иегова знает и ценит каждого человека, и что Его суды будут справедливы, вдохновляет меня продолжать свои усилия здесь с обновленным рвением и доверием к Его правосудию.
I just finished studying this article. So refreshing, I used to worry about my family in the Philippines who hadn’t yet heard the good news. Knowing that Jehovah will judge each person justly gives me so much peace. It’s great to trust that His judgments will be righteous.