We Believe: Jesus will Judge the Living and the Dead

"Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire."

- Revelation 20:11-15 

Reflection

This passage from Revelation provides a vivid depiction of the final judgment. The great white throne represents the absolute purity and righteousness of God's judgment. The image of the earth and heaven fleeing from His presence underscores the awe-inspiring and inescapable nature of this event. Every person, regardless of their status or achievements, will stand before God and be judged according to their works. 

The opening of the books, including the Book of Life, signifies that every action and decision we make is recorded and will be brought to light. This judgment is not arbitrary but is based on the things written in the books. The sea, Death, and Hades giving up the dead emphasize that no one can escape this judgment. The finality of the second death, where those not found in the Book of Life are cast into the lake of fire, serves as a solemn reminder of the eternal consequences of our choices. 

This passage challenges us to reflect on our lives and consider the weight of our actions. It calls us to live with a sense of accountability, knowing that we will one day stand before Jesus and give an account of our lives. This judgment is not something to be feared for those who are in Christ, but it is a call to live in a way that honors Him and reflects His love and righteousness. 

Personal Application

As I reflect on the reality of Jesus' judgment, I am reminded of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Him. It is easy to become complacent and lose sight of the eternal significance of our actions. However, the knowledge that I will one day stand before Jesus and be judged according to my works motivates me to live with integrity and purpose. 

I am encouraged to examine my heart and ensure that my actions align with God's will. This means being intentional in my relationships, my work, and my daily decisions. It also means seeking forgiveness and extending grace to others, knowing that I have been forgiven much. The promise of Jesus' return and judgment inspires me to live a life that is marked by love, compassion, and righteousness. 

Thought-Provoking Questions

1. How does the reality of Jesus' judgment influence your daily decisions and actions? 
2. In what ways can you live with a greater sense of accountability and purpose in light of the final judgment? 
3. How can you ensure that your name is written in the Book of Life? 
4. What steps can you take to align your actions with God's will and reflect His love and righteousness? 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of Jesus' return and the assurance that He will judge the living and the dead. Help me to live each day with the awareness of this reality and to make decisions that honor You. Guide me in aligning my actions with Your will and in living a life that reflects Your love and righteousness. Strengthen my relationship with You and help me to extend grace and forgiveness to others. May I be found faithful when I stand before You. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. 

Written by Sarah Leasure