κρίσις

Krísis refers to the act of judging, a judicial decision, or the result of that decision, whether favorable or unfavorable. In its broadest sense, it denotes a separation or discrimination, leading to a conclusion or verdict. This term carries significant theological weight, particularly in its association with God's righteous judgment of humanity. It can refer to a process of discernment and evaluation, or to the definite outcome of such a process. While sometimes referring to a human decision or verdict, it most often points to divine activity.

In the New Testament, krísis frequently appears in contexts dealing with divine judgment, the day of judgment, or condemnation. It encompasses both the act of judging and the resulting sentence or condemnation. The concept is deeply intertwined with the biblical understanding of God's justice and righteousness, where wickedness is judged and righteousness is upheld. This is particularly evident in the Gospels and Revelation, where the ultimate judgment of God on sin and unrighteousness is a dominant theme. It is not merely a negative term, as it also implies the establishment of divine order and justice.

The semantic range of krísis includes the idea of distinguishing between good and evil, truth and falsehood. This discernment leads to a judicial verdict. The term can also denote the place or occasion of judgment, such as a tribunal or a specific day. It emphasizes the accountability of individuals before God, highlighting the consequences of their actions. The seriousness of this divine judgment is a recurring motif, urging repentance and faith. While humanity experiences various forms of judgment, the ultimate krísis is God's definitive assessment and decree.