Definition:
Selective Judgment refers to the concept within Christian theology where God exercises His judgment in a discerning manner, distinguishing between individuals or groups based on their actions, faith, and obedience to His commandments. This concept underscores the belief that God's judgment is not arbitrary but is based on His omniscience and righteousness.

Biblical Basis:
The idea of Selective Judgment is rooted in various passages throughout the Bible, where God's judgment is depicted as both just and discerning. One of the key aspects of Selective Judgment is the differentiation between the righteous and the wicked.

1. Old Testament Examples:
· Noah's Flood: In Genesis 6-9, God decides to bring a flood upon the earth to judge humanity's wickedness. However, He spares Noah and his family due to Noah's righteousness: "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD" (Genesis 6:8).
· Sodom and Gomorrah: In Genesis 18-19, God reveals His plan to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah due to their sinfulness. However, He agrees to spare the cities if righteous individuals are found. Ultimately, Lot and his family are rescued, demonstrating God's selective judgment based on righteousness.

2. New Testament Teachings:
· Parable of the Sheep and the Goats: In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus describes the final judgment where He will separate people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The criteria for this separation are based on acts of compassion and service: "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed by My Father; inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world'" (Matthew 25:34).
· The Wheat and the Tares: In Matthew 13:24-30, Jesus tells the parable of the wheat and the tares, illustrating how the righteous and the wicked coexist until the harvest, when they will be separated: "Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters, 'First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat into my barn'" (Matthew 13:30).

Theological Implications:
Selective Judgment emphasizes God's justice and mercy. It reassures believers that God is aware of their faithfulness and will reward them accordingly, while also holding the wicked accountable. This concept encourages Christians to live righteously, knowing that their actions and faith are seen and will be judged by God.

Related Concepts:
· Divine Justice: The belief that God's judgments are fair and based on His perfect knowledge and righteousness.
· Grace and Mercy: While judgment is selective, God's grace and mercy are also extended to those who repent and believe in Him.
· Eschatology: The study of end times, where Selective Judgment plays a crucial role in the final separation of the righteous and the wicked.

Conclusion:
Selective Judgment is a key aspect of God's interaction with humanity, highlighting His ability to discern and judge based on righteousness and faith. This concept is woven throughout the biblical narrative, offering both a warning and a promise to believers.