Ellen Chat Conversation

The investigative judgment is a solemn process occurring in the heavenly sanctuary that precedes the second advent of Christ. This work involves a careful examination of the records of those who have professed to be the people of God throughout history (GC 480.1). Just as the ancient Day of Atonement focused only on those who had previously confessed their sins, this final judgment considers the cases of believers rather than the wicked, whose judgment is a separate event (CIHS 173). During this period, the lives of both the dead and the living are reviewed to determine whose sins can be permanently blotted out (CIHS 180.2).

For those currently living, this time is described as a "great day of atonement" that requires deep soul-humbling and spiritual vigilance (10MR 266.3). It is a time when individuals are encouraged to turn their investigative efforts inward, examining their own hearts and characters rather than focusing on the faults of others (SW February 5, 1907, par. 6). The conclusion of this investigative work marks the end of human probation. Once the judgment of all cases is finished, the destiny of every person—whether for life or death—is forever fixed (GC 490.2).

This transition occurs shortly before Christ appears in the clouds of heaven, at which point He brings His rewards to give to every person according to the works they have performed (GH August 1, 1910, par. 7). The ultimate outcome for the believer depends on whether their sins have been confessed and their characters found in harmony with God's requirements. Those who overcome will have their names retained in the book of life and will be confessed by Jesus before the Father (21MR 386.3). Conversely, if sins remain unconfessed and unrepented of, those names are blotted out of the book of life (21MR 386.3).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the blotting out of sins?How does the investigative judgment relate to the sanctuary service?What practical counsel did she give regarding preparation for the close of probation?

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