Let us examine the Scriptures every day 2026
Thursday, June 4, 2026
At the judgment, the inhabitants of Nineveh will rise up (Matt. 12:41).
God reminded Jonah that the inhabitants of Nineveh did not even know “the difference between right and wrong” (Jonah 1:1, 2; 3:10; 4:9-11). Later, Jesus used the example of the repentant inhabitants of Nineveh to highlight Jehovah’s justice and mercy.
In what “judgment” would the inhabitants of Nineveh rise? Jesus spoke of “a resurrection of judgment,” which would occur in the future (John 5:29). He was referring to his Thousand Year Reign, when there will be “a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous” (Acts 24:15). For the unrighteous, it will be “a resurrection of judgment” because Jehovah and Jesus will observe them to see if they obey and apply what they learn. If a Ninevite is resurrected but refuses to worship Jehovah, his judgment will end in a death sentence (Isa. 65:20). But if he chooses to be faithful to Jehovah, the judgment will be favorable, and he will have the opportunity to live forever (Dan. 12:2). w24.05 5 pars. 13, 14
Why did Jehovah show mercy to the inhabitants of Nineveh?
We also know that Jehovah was merciful to the inhabitants of Nineveh. God told Jonah: “I have noticed your wickedness.” But when they repented of their sins, Jehovah was kind and forgave them. He showed far more mercy than Jonah. In fact, when the prophet became angry, God had to remind him that those people did not even know “the difference between right and wrong” (Jonah 1:1, 2; 3:10; 4:9-11). Later, Jesus used the example of the repentant inhabitants of Nineveh to highlight Jehovah’s justice and mercy. He said that they would stand up “in the judgment” (Matthew 12:41).
Why shouldn't we say that no one from Sodom and Gomorrah will be resurrected?
Jesus said that “the Day of Judgment will be more bearable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah” than for those who rejected him and his teachings (Matt. 10:14, 15; 11:23, 24; Luke 10:12). What did he mean? It might seem that Jesus was using hyperbole, but all indications are that he meant it literally, just as he did when speaking of the inhabitants of Nineveh. The “Day of Judgment” he spoke of here is surely the same judgment he mentioned when speaking of the inhabitants of Nineveh.
Both the Ninevites and the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah did bad things. But the people of Nineveh had the opportunity to repent. Also, remember that Jesus said there will be “a resurrection of judgment” for “those who did bad things” (John 5:29). So, it seems there may be hope for the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah. It is possible that at least some of them will be resurrected, and we can help them to come to know Jehovah and Jesus.
What does Jehovah take into account when deciding whom he will resurrect? (Jeremiah 17:10)
(Read Jeremiah 17:10.) This verse sums up well what we do know: Jehovah always examines “the heart” and analyzes “the innermost thoughts.” When deciding whom to resurrect, he will repay “each one according to his conduct.” Jehovah will be firm when necessary, but he will be merciful whenever possible. So we should never assume that a person will not be resurrected unless we know it with absolute certainty because the Bible says so.
All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2024 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania JW.ORG.
Comments
Post a Comment