Expert: Edward Bode - 9/20/2010

Question
QUESTION: Will the white throne judgment be in new Jerusalem? and in
this event would we  be able to recognize those lined up for
judgment since all are to appear before God?

ANSWER: The representation of the final [general] judgment in Rev 20:11ff does not explicitly tell us the details that you seek.
I would think that the context of the next passage [chapter 21] in the new Jerusalem suggests that the scene may be the same as the previous.
Further, since all humanity comes before the judgment of God, I would think that we would be able to recognize others.
I am sorry that I cannot be more positive about a response to your questions.
Best wishes, Nihal.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: 1)Why did God create man knowing that billions are going to
spend their eternity in Hell/Lake of Fire?
2)Though interpreted differently doesn't John 20:23 convey
that Apostles were given authority to forgive sin?

Answer
God freely chose to create mankind with the intention that all be saved [1 Timothy 2:1-6].  God thus gives mankind the help that they need to accomplish this will of God.  However, men have free will and so can refuse to cooperate and accept God's plan [sin].  God does take away a person's free will.  God's plan extends His blessed happiness to all; that some refuse [sin]does not violate the intent of God.  Human refusal is not a reason to have not extended the universal invitation to eternal happiness.
John 20:23 clearly confers the authority to forgive sins.  See also Mt 16:19, 18:18.
There is much more than can be said about the manner of forgiveness for sins.  If you would like more on this subject, please feel free to write again.
Best wishes.