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The Coming Judge
The gospel is the power of God for the salvation of all who believe, first for the Jewish people and then the Gentiles, or non-Jewish people (Romans 1:16).
Through the Apostle Peter, the gospel was initially delivered to the Gentiles in the home of Cornelius, a Roman military commander. (Acts 10:26-27). Near the conclusion of Peter’s message, he said, “He (Jesus) commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead” (Acts 10:42, NIV, emphasis mine). His words not only affirm that judgment is entrusted to Jesus, they also point to a final judgment when the Lord returns. This is something Peter would have likely heard when Jesus said the following:
"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).
One thing those verses reveal is that the word of Christ initiates this rising: “When all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out.” Also, while these verses are like Jesus’ words in verse 25, the difference lies in their futuristic aspect. In verse 25, Jesus emphasizes the present with the phrase“has now come”. In verses 28 and 29, the focus is on a future time. A time when “all” will hear his voice and come out of their graves. Some will rise to the limitless joy of eternal life that they have already received. Tragically, others will rise to a final and eternal condemnation in hell. This occurs when Jesus returns.
Before examining additional verses regarding the return of Christ, it’s essential that the words “those who have done good” are not misinterpreted. Those words do not imply that someone can earn their salvation. God loves us too much to leave us wondering if we’ve been good enough. He wants us to know for sure whether we have eternal life (1 John 5:13).
Reflection: A person once said, “I’m not sure I’m ready if Christ returns.” Why might someone
make that comment?
Acts 10:36-43
Acts 17:30-31
1st John 15:9-13
About this Plan
In John 5, after Jesus heals a man at the pool of Bethesda, he then declared that greater works would occur, causing people to be amazed. Over the next thirty days, this plan by Dr. P. J. Meduri from Taking the Field Ministries will explore the claims of Christ regarding these greater works. Works he continues today through his followers.
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