The Greek word *krisis* (G2920), often translated as judgment, primarily means a process of investigation, separation, and decision, rather than a final verdict. It signifies a critical turning point or crisis in a person's life, marking a transformative period of evaluation by God. In biblical contexts, such as Hebrews 9:27 and the second resurrection, *krisis* represents an ongoing process where individuals, especially those without prior knowledge of truth, are given opportunities for growth and conversion. Unlike *krino*, which covers the full scope of judgment, *krisis* emphasizes the investigative phase, reflecting God's patient, merciful approach to salvation. This pivotal moment, often positive, offers a chance for divine revelation and potential eternal life.

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The Second Resurrection

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

The Greek word *krisis* (G2920) carries a primary meaning of a process of investigation, involving the act of distinguishing and separating. Its secondary application refers to the decision or judgment that results from this process. In the context of resurrection and judgment, *krisis* is not merely a final sentence but often indicates a critical juncture or turning point in a person's life. This process is evident in the concept of judgment as a time of evaluation, where God investigates and separates, guiding individuals through a transformative period. In Hebrews 9:27, the term judgment, translated from *krisis*, can be understood as a separating or a pivotal moment rather than an immediate verdict. This fits the idea of a second resurrection, where individuals who died without knowledge of the truth reach a turning point. God resurrects them, and the investigation continues under new circumstances, offering them the opportunity to receive information, understand righteousness, and move toward conversion. This process of judgment, or *krisis*, is not limited to a single moment but spans a period during which growth and evaluation occur. It begins with some in the present era and will extend to others in the future through resurrection. The pattern shows that all must go through similar steps of development, guided by God's Spirit, to reach the fullness of His purpose. Unlike the related term *krino*, which encompasses the entire scope from calling to sentencing, *krisis* emphasizes the ongoing investigative process leading to a decision, reflecting God's patient and merciful approach to bringing all to salvation.

The Final Harvest

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

The Greek word *krisis* (G2920) holds significant meaning in understanding the concept of judgment within the biblical framework. According to scholarly sources, *krisis* generally conveys notions of separation, decision, division, a turn of affairs, and judgment. It is akin to the English word "crisis," indicating a critical turning point in the progress of an event, not necessarily its conclusion. In this sense, *krisis* represents a pivotal moment in a person's life, where a significant change for better or worse may occur. It does not always signify the end but can mark a time when God reveals Himself and His purpose, allowing for a judgment process to begin. In the biblical context, *krisis* implies a period during which an ongoing process of evaluation takes place. The decision or sentence comes at the end of this judgment period. This process involves both the actions of the Judge, who observes and evaluates, and the actions of those being judged, as they live their lives. The pattern of judgment, as established with the church, shows that it is an active and continuous process, not merely a final verdict, shaping the understanding of how God interacts with humanity over time.

The Judgments

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

The Greek word *krisis* (G2920), translated as "judgment" in English, carries a profound meaning that extends beyond mere condemnation. It signifies a turning point, a critical moment of decision or evaluation. Often, the term is understood in the sense of a crisis, which does not necessarily imply calamity but rather a pivotal change. For the vast majority of mankind, this turning point will be a positive one, as it marks the moment when they are offered salvation through a process of judgment. This concept is evident in the idea that after death, there is a *krisis*, a turning point where something significant happens in a person's existence. It is not a final end but a transition to a new phase. In the context of the second resurrection, individuals will rise to face this process of judgment, hearing the voice of the Son of God. They will be given life, though not immediately eternal life, and will undergo a period of evaluation—a *krisis*—that serves as their opportunity for transformation. This turning point, or *krisis*, is not inherently negative. For many, it will be a wonderful moment, as they are brought to a place where salvation becomes possible. The process of judgment that follows death is thus a critical juncture, a chance for those who never had the opportunity to know Jesus Christ during their initial lifetime to experience a divine turning point leading to potential eternal life.

Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen (Part Ten)

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

In the teachings of Jesus, as presented in the parables of Matthew 25, the concept of judgment is central, embodied in the Greek word *krisis* (G2920), which fundamentally means division. This term, closely related to the English word "crisis," signifies a critical moment that demands a choice or separation, determining one's path forward or backward. In the context of Christ's return, *krisis* represents the unalterable division between those who are prepared and those who are not. In the Parable of the Ten Virgins, five wise virgins enter the wedding banquet while five foolish ones are shut out due to their lack of readiness. Similarly, in the Parable of the Talents, two servants are commended while one is judged, and in the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, the sheep inherit the Kingdom while the goats face final judgment. This division, brought by *krisis*, underscores the decisive nature of Christ's return, separating individuals based on their spiritual preparedness at that crucial moment.

The Weightier Matters (Part 2): Judgment

Article by Staff

In addressing the weightier matters of the law, Jesus Christ emphasized judgment, derived from the Greek word *krisis* (G2920), which signifies a decision for or against, implying a formal tribunal or justice. This term encompasses the impartial adjustment of conflicting claims or the assignment of deserved punishment or reward, reflecting what is factual, reasonable, faithful, morally upright, good, fair, righteous, impartial, and legally correct. Christ urged the Pharisees to uphold legal correctness as part of proper decision-making, but stressed that justice involves more than just this aspect, requiring fairness and impartiality in their dealings. The importance of *krisis* as a weighty matter lies in its role as the aim and purpose of the law, ensuring that justice is done. While the law itself is crucial, judgment or justice may be considered even weightier because it embodies the very essence of applying the law correctly in all circumstances. Christ highlighted that God, being the embodiment of love and justice without partiality, provided the law and its principles to guide humanity toward perfection, helping us to learn and practice righteous judgment in our daily lives.