What other scriptures emphasize God's impartial judgment on all people? The Starting Point: Ezekiel 21:3 “and tell the land of Israel that this is what the LORD says: ‘Behold, I am against you; I will draw My sword from its sheath and cut off from you both the righteous and the wicked.’” God’s sword does not discriminate. The same standard falls on “both the righteous and the wicked.” Scripture consistently echoes this theme of impartial judgment. Old Testament Echoes of Impartial Judgment • Deuteronomy 10:17 — “For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, mighty, and awesome God, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribe.” • Job 34:19 — God “shows no partiality to princes and does not favor the rich over the poor, for they are all the work of His hands.” • Jeremiah 17:10 — “I, the LORD, search the heart and examine the mind to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.” • Ecclesiastes 12:14 — “For God will bring every deed into judgment, along with every hidden thing, whether good or evil.” From the Law through the Prophets and Wisdom literature, the message stays clear: no status, wealth, or background shields anyone from God’s righteous evaluation. New Testament Confirmation • Acts 10:34-35 — “Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.’” • Romans 2:6-11 — “God ‘will repay each one according to his deeds’… There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil… but glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does good… For God does not show favoritism.” • 1 Peter 1:17 — “Since you call on a Father who judges each one’s work impartially, conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners.” • Colossians 3:25 — “Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.” • 2 Corinthians 5:10 — “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad.” • Revelation 20:12 — “The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books.” The same impartiality found in Ezekiel is affirmed by apostles and prophets alike, spanning every stage of redemptive history. Living in Light of God’s Impartiality • Reverence — Because God “searches the heart,” outward appearances or pedigree do not protect us. Authentic obedience matters. • Humility — Since He “does not favor the rich over the poor,” no earthly advantage guarantees immunity. All stand equal before His throne. • Holiness — Knowing that “each one may receive his due,” daily choices gain eternal weight. • Grace-centered urgency — Impartial judgment highlights the beauty of the gospel; only Christ’s righteousness secures pardon for anyone who believes, regardless of background. |