The concept of divine retribution for evil is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's justice and holiness. The punishment of the world for evil is depicted in various forms, from historical judgments to eschatological prophecies.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament provides numerous accounts of God's judgment upon nations and individuals for their wickedness. One of the earliest examples is the Great Flood, where God judged the earth for its pervasive corruption and violence. Genesis 6:5-7 states, "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time. And the LORD regretted that He had made man on the earth, and it grieved Him in His heart. So the LORD said, 'I will blot out man, whom I have created, from the face of the earth—every man and beast and crawling creature and bird of the air—for I am grieved that I have made them.'"

Another significant instance is the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, where God rained down sulfur and fire as a punishment for their grievous sins (Genesis 19:24-25). This event serves as a warning of the severe consequences of moral depravity.

The prophets frequently warned Israel and surrounding nations of impending judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry. Isaiah 13:11 declares, "I will punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity; I will end the haughtiness of the arrogant and lay low the pride of the ruthless."

New Testament Revelation

The New Testament continues the theme of divine punishment, emphasizing the ultimate judgment that will occur at the end of the age. Jesus Himself spoke of the final judgment, where the righteous will be separated from the wicked. In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus describes the Son of Man coming in His glory to judge the nations, rewarding the righteous and condemning the wicked to eternal punishment.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the certainty of divine retribution. In Romans 1:18 , he writes, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness." Paul further warns in 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 that those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel will "suffer the penalty of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His might."

The Book of Revelation provides a vivid portrayal of the final judgment and the punishment of the world for evil. Revelation 20:11-15 describes the Great White Throne Judgment, where the dead are judged according to their deeds, and those not found in the Book of Life are cast into the lake of fire.

Theological Implications

The punishment of the world for evil underscores the holiness and justice of God. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the necessity of repentance. God's judgments are not arbitrary but are rooted in His righteous character and His desire to uphold justice and righteousness.

Throughout Scripture, the call to repentance is coupled with warnings of judgment. In Ezekiel 18:30-32 , God pleads with Israel, "Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge each of you according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, so that your iniquity will not become your downfall. Cast away from yourselves all the transgressions you have committed, and fashion for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. Why should you die, O house of Israel? For I take no pleasure in anyone’s death, declares the Lord GOD. So repent and live!"

The biblical narrative consistently presents God's judgment as an opportunity for repentance and redemption, highlighting His mercy alongside His justice.