The Reality of Judgment

Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | March 25, 2024 | John 5:28-30

KEY VERSE:

"Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned” John 5:28-29 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

Previously Jesus said that all who have everlasting life would hear His voice and live (John 5:25). He now extended the concept of resurrection to all humanity, both those who have done good and those who have done evil. This does not imply that salvation hinges on good deeds, as the Gospel consistently emphasizes that individuals attain eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. However, their lives serve as a testament to the genuineness of the faith they proclaim. Jesus explained this to the astonished religious leaders to explain who He was, and the nature of His authority and deity. At the same time, this passage tells us something remarkable about humanity. It suggests that both those who have done good and those who have done evil will live forever beyond the physical and material life they know on this earth. On the day of judgment, Jesus will command them to rise in bodies suited for eternity.

Then He adds a further claim of His divine power: In the future, He will give the command and every dead person from every people group from all ages will arise from the dead! Irrespective of how their physical bodies met their end—whether drowned, burned, devoured by scavengers, or destroyed by explosions—all will stand before the judgment seat when they are resurrected. Jesus is teaching that this life is not the end of our existence and that there is life beyond the grave for every person—both the righteous and the wicked. The resurrection and judgment will encompass both the righteous and the wicked. The righteous will receive eternal life, while the wicked will be punished eternally (Matthew 25:46). If eternal life is forever, then so is eternal punishment. Jesus will judge all people with impartiality and complete fairness. No one will be exempt from His judgment. No one can complain that he or she was judged unfairly.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

How does the reality of future judgment impact your daily life and choices? Don’t devote yourself to seeking pleasure in this life only. The world and all its inhabitants are destined for judgment. The only way to escape judgment is to believe in Jesus and live for Him. He is the giver of life and the righteous judge. 

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, I acknowledge the reality of judgment and my accountability for my actions. Please help me to live in a way that is pleasing to you, seeking to do what is good and righteous. May I trust in your just judgment and find hope in your righteousness. Guide me by your Spirit and lead me in paths of righteousness. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: HIS VOICE

In Greek, the phrase "his voice" is translated as "τῇ φωνῇ αὐτοῦ" (tē phōnē autou), where "φωνῇ" (phōnē) refers to sound or voice, and "αὐτοῦ" (autou) means "his" or "of him." This phrase highlights the unique authority of Jesus' voice in effecting the resurrection of the dead.

Jesus affirms that there will be a future resurrection for all people, both the righteous and the wicked. All who are in the tombs, regardless of their deeds in life, will hear His voice and come forth. Those who have done good will experience the resurrection of life, entering into eternal fellowship with God, while those who have done evil will face the resurrection of judgment, receiving just retribution for their actions.

This phrase highlights the significance of listening to the words of Jesus during our lives on earth. Those who respond to His message with faith and obedience will attain eternal life, while those who turn away from His message will suffer the consequences of their disbelief.

Reflections:

How does the reality of the future resurrection impact your perspective on life and eternity? How can you respond to the voice of Jesus today, ensuring that you are prepared for the coming resurrection?