The Judgment Has Set

“The Judgment Has Set” is a solemn and doctrinally weighty hymn by F. E. Belden that draws directly from the prophetic vision of Daniel and the wider biblical teaching on divine judgment. Written in the late nineteenth century, the hymn reflects a strong awareness of God’s holiness, justice, and sovereign authority. Its language is reverent and serious, intended to awaken conscience and direct hearts toward readiness before God.

The hymn is firmly anchored in Daniel’s courtroom vision, where thrones are placed, the Ancient of days sits in judgment, and the books are opened (Daniel 7:9-10, KJV). Belden presents judgment not as chaos or fear-driven speculation, but as an orderly and righteous act of God. Heaven’s judgment is portrayed as deliberate, just, and grounded in truth, reminding worshipers that history moves according to God’s appointed purpose.

A central emphasis of the hymn is accountability. Scripture teaches that God will bring every work into judgment, including hidden things, whether good or evil (Ecclesiastes 12:14, KJV). Belden’s text calls believers to self-examination, repentance, and faith, stressing that no life is lived outside the sight of God. At the same time, the hymn does not detach judgment from Christ, for Daniel’s vision also reveals the Son of man receiving an everlasting kingdom (Daniel 7:13-14, KJV).

The hymn also resonates with the message proclaimed in Revelation, where the everlasting gospel includes the announcement that the hour of God’s judgment has come (Revelation 14:6-7, KJV). Judgment is therefore not merely a threat, but a gospel proclamation that God will set all things right. For the faithful, this brings hope, vindication, and assurance that evil will not prevail forever.

“The Judgment Has Set” continues to serve as a powerful reminder of eternal realities. It calls the church to live soberly, faithfully, and reverently before God, holding together the truths of divine justice and divine mercy. The hymn urges believers to prepare their hearts, trusting in Christ, knowing that God’s judgment is righteous and His kingdom everlasting.