Questions and Answers on the General Judgment

180. What is the judgment called which will be passed on all men immediately after the general resurrection?

The judgment which will be passed on all men immediately after the general resurrection is called the general judgment.

(a) The general judgment was described by Our Saviour Himself.

(b) Every deliberate thought, word, deed, and omission of every person's entire life will be manifested at the general judgment.

182. If everyone is judged immediately after death, why will there be a general judgment?

Although everyone is judged immediately after death, it is fitting that there be a general judgment in order that the justice, wisdom, and mercy of God may be glorified in the presence of all.

(a) Man is a social being as well as an individual. The general judgment will manifest God's Providence, the majesty of Christ, and the glory of the elect.

The Baltimore Catechism, no. 3, Lesson 14