Judging with Christ the Judge

Marc Rastoin, SJ, writes in La Civiltà Cattolica that the concept of God as king and judge evolved from the Old Testament's view of the Lord ruling over Israel to a recognition of his dominion over all nations. Rastoin notes that while kings of Israel, such as David, administered justice, their authority remained subordinate to the Law and the word of God revealed through prophets.

The analysis highlights a shift in the Book of Daniel, which introduces a mysterious figure known as the son of man associated with divine judgment. This development moved beyond the specific role of the Israelite king to a broader vision of judgment.