Will Jesus judge the living and dead?

The Apostles Creed is a statement of belief embraced by billions of Christians worldwide. The phrase, “He will come again,” affirms the anticipated second coming of Jesus Christ. This return is not a vague or symbolic event; it’s a literal, physical return where Christ will usher in the final judgment. This will be the culmination of God’s redemptive plan for humanity and the world.

When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 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.   Matthew 25:31-32

Christians believe that when Jesus returns to earth he will judge everyone. No one escapes this final judgment—neither those alive at His return nor those who have already died, underscoring the emphasis on God’s sovereignty and justice. Everyone will be held accountable for his or her life, highlighting the need for faith in Christ as the only means of salvation.

Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.  John 5:28-29

Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.   Revelation 20:11-12

As Christians we are called to live in readiness and hope, aligning our lives with the teachings of Jesus, fostering justice, mercy, and humility. We believe that the brokenness of the world will be put right when Christ returns. The final judgment is seen not as something to fear for those in Christ, but as the ultimate manifestation of God’s justice and mercy.

This line from the Apostles’ Creed encapsulates a future hope rooted in divine justice and mercy, urging believers to live faithfully and expectantly in the present. If you would like to embrace this salvation and have the hope promised to all believers, read our post, How Can I Become A Christian?

The Apostles Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.