The Coming Judgement

Revelation 20:11-15

The Journey of Eternal Significance: Reflecting on Life, Judgment, and Salvation

In the grand tapestry of existence, we often find ourselves caught up in the day-to-day concerns of life. We plan for careers, save for retirement, and chase after fleeting pleasures. But how often do we pause to consider the weight of eternity? The sobering reality is that our earthly lives are but a brief moment compared to the expanse of forever.

Imagine your entire life represented by a small red dash on a long white rope. That dash—your time on Earth—is fleeting. Yet, the rope extends far beyond, representing eternity. This visual serves as a powerful reminder: while we must live responsibly in the present, our ultimate preparation should be for what lies beyond.

The concept of judgment is one that many find uncomfortable, yet it's a theme woven throughout scripture. Revelation 20:11-15 paints a vivid picture of a great white throne, before which all will stand—the great and the small alike. No one will be overlooked, no action left unaccounted for. The books will be opened, recording every deed done in this life.

It's a sobering thought. Who among us can stand blameless before perfect holiness? The Psalmist reminds us that God, who created the ear and the eye, surely hears and sees all. Even our thoughts are known to Him. In light of this, how can any of us hope to measure up?

This is where the beauty of the gospel shines brightest. While one set of books records our deeds, there is another book mentioned—the Book of Life. This book doesn't contain our feeble attempts at righteousness, but rather the perfect righteousness of Christ, credited to those who put their faith in Him.

The apostle Paul articulates this profound truth: "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21). It's not about our good deeds outweighing the bad. It's about having our name written in the Book of Life through faith in Jesus.

Consider the contrast presented in scripture. On one hand, we have figures like Caesar, Pilate, and Nero—powerful men of their day. On the other, we have individuals like the thief on the cross or Mary Magdalene—seemingly insignificant in the eyes of the world. Yet, it's not earthly status that determines eternal destiny, but rather one's response to Christ.

The thief, in his final moments, turned to Jesus and said, "Remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus' response? "Today you will be with me in paradise." This exchange encapsulates the heart of the gospel—it's never too late to turn to Christ, and His grace is sufficient for all who come to Him in faith.

But what does this mean for us today? How should we live in light of eternity?

First, we must recognize our need for a Savior. The Bible is clear that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Our own efforts at righteousness are like filthy rags before a holy God. We need the perfect righteousness of Christ credited to our account.

Secondly, we're called to repentance and faith. This isn't a one-time decision, but a lifelong posture of turning from sin and trusting in Christ. When we stumble—and we will—we have the assurance that "if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

Lastly, we're called to share this good news with others. As Charles Spurgeon once said, "Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter." If we truly believe in the reality of eternity and the saving power of the gospel, how can we keep silent?

The prophet Isaiah, centuries before Christ, painted a vivid picture of the coming Messiah:

"Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed." (Isaiah 53:4-5)

This is the heart of the gospel—Jesus taking our place, bearing our sins, so that we might be reconciled to God.

As we navigate life, let's not lose sight of the eternal perspective. Our days are filled with a mix of triumphs and failures, moments of faith and instances of doubt. But for those in Christ, there's an assurance that transcends our daily struggles. As Paul beautifully expressed, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20).

In conclusion, let us be mindful of the coming judgment, not with fear, but with the confident hope found in Christ. Let us live each day in light of eternity, sharing the good news of salvation with those around us. For in Christ, death has lost its sting, and we have the promise of eternal life in His presence.

As we reflect on these truths, may we echo the words of Jude: "To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy—to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen" (Jude 1:24-25).