How do we know that judgment comes after death?

Scripture reveals that death leads to judgment, as emphasized in Hebrews 9:27, which states, 'it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.' This principle is evident in the account of the rich man and Lazarus. After both men died, their immediate experiences reflected their spiritual status during life. The rich man faced torment, while Lazarus was comforted in the presence of Abraham. This narrative underscores that earthly life carries eternal consequences. Each individual's response to God's truth and their relationship with Jesus Christ will determine their eternal fate after death, confirming the reality of judgment as a consequence of one's choices in life.