This is the end of the matter; all hath been heard: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, with every hidden thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. (Ecc 12:13-14)
The judgement scene is one we struggle to comprehend, seeing as we never have experienced such a thing, yet it is to be the focus of our lives (Ecc 12:13-14). Everything we do here is in preparation for this moment. Let’s just consider a few points to help settle our minds on living each moment for that day!
Judgement is certain. Hebrews 9:27 tells us it is simply the step beyond our passing, or the life we live until the Lord’s coming (1 Thess. 4:17). Either way, our time here will be temporary and life hereafter eternal.
It will be the greatest crowd ever assembled. Revelation 20:12 tells us everyone who has ever lived will be there. It will be a moment when all of mankind will be on equal ground and give account for the life each has lived.
The greatest judge shall preside (Acts 17:30). God will judge with righteous judgement. This passage indicates also, and very plainly, that God wants us to stand before him justified. By his grace and mercy, He has given us a way to life eternal with him and by his love he desires for all to be saved most of all (John 14:1-6, Rom. 5:8).
We will be judged by the way we have handled the Bible in our lives. John 12:48 says, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day”. Also, the Scripture will read as it does now (Matt. 24:35).
It will be the greatest verdict ever handed down (Matt 25:41-46).
Those found not faithful to God face eternal destruction (2 Thess. 1:9). However, those of us that are found faithful have a home prepared in the presence of God who loves us and gave his Son for us (John 14).
Truly, let us all be living here each moment in view of eternity and our final judgement.
Jason Barger