101 Questions on the Sanctuary and on Ellen White

6. The Commencement of the Judgment

Where in the Bible is the commencement of the investigative judgment described? QSEW 10.1

In Daniel 7:9, 10, 21, 22, 26. The prophecy of Daniel 7 pictures four successive world empires, following which the nations of Europe were to come on the scene. Daniel 7:1-7, 23, 24. These nations, in turn, would witness the development and age-long supremacy of the papal power. Daniel 7:8, 24, 25. Daniel states that, after the papacy had worn out the saints for three-and-a-half times or 1260 years (538-1798 AD.), the judgment would commence. Daniel 7:8, 26. This judgment, when the books were opened and inspected before the angelic host, would take place before Christ’s glorious kingdom is established. Daniel 7:11, 26, 27. QSEW 10.2

It can be seen that Daniel 7 locates the investigative judgment after the year 1798, but before the return of Christ. A more precise date for the beginning of the judgment, October 22, 1844, can be computed from Daniel 8:14. (The concept of an investigative judgment is found also in Matthew 13:47-50; 22:1-14; 2 Corinthians 5:10, etc.) QSEW 10.3