The Dead are Judged

In a final act of judgement God condemns death itself – even the grave cannot overcome the Lord! John also shares a vision of judgement, and of the fate of those whose name “was not in the book of life.” As you read, reflect on this judgement – what would happen if God judged you according to your deeds? Allow this vision to stir you toward gratitude for Jesus, who made a way for you to escape justice for your sin.

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Revelation 20:11-15

For more help use this Bible Study method

REFLECTION

The Dead are Judged

by Diane Ward

A service opportunity “Matthew 25” was offered to me. The ministry encompassed Jesus’ words; feed the hungry, welcome strangers, provide clothing, care for the sick and visit those in prison. The ministry at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana was a great blessing for the community and for me.

Matthew 25:31-46

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.  All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.” To the sheep he will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” To the goats he will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.”

At the Great White Throne Judgement where the dead are judged Jesus will conduct the trial. (John 22-27) Multitudes of people of diverse religions will be present; those who believe in God and those who believed in many gods, following their own truth. Every person’s life will be measured against God’s standard of holiness.

Somewhere between heaven and earth, the last judgement will take place. According to scripture, it will not be on earth. “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.” (Revelation 20:11) It will not be in heaven because no sin can enter the presence of God there. “Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Revelation 21: 27)

One day God will bring perfect justice that all will see as right and good. The sovereignty of God’s character is beyond our understanding. God’s justice and mercy meet at the cross!

As we wait, we serve each other as Jesus commanded, we worship triumphantly, witness urgently, and keep watch expectantly for Jesus’ return.

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER

MONDAY - MEDICAL PERSONNEL - Pray for our doctors, nurses, and all medical professionals to have strength, wisdom, endurance, and alertness.