SCRIPTURE:
“’If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge that person. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day.”
John 12:47-48
OBSERVATION:
As I read verse “47,” it caught my attention because it confused me. I thought, “wait, won’t Jesus judge those that hear His Words, but don’t keep them as an act of disobedience?” I read it again. With further study, I found that they key is timing and purpose of His first coming which is when He said theses words. As He said these Words, His focus was to share about and offer salvation, and not to execute final judgement at that time. So, what does this mean? In verse “48,” therein lies where final judgement will be made, “at the last day.” It was Jesus coming to reveal God, call people to repentance, and provide a way to eternal life. BUT judgement would come in the last day.
APPLICATION:
This is so profound to remind us that grace was given by Jesus and that we have time to live and obey His will and way of the Lord. However, if we are complacent and don’t respond in obedience, we may be destined to judgement since no one knows of when Jesus will return, which will result in judgement day. So, what does this mean to us? Do what Jesus came to share and warn us about – repent, ask for forgiveness for our sins, turn to and receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior, and walk with Him by obeying His Words. How do we “hear” the Words of Jesus Chris? By studying His Words in the Bible and keeping them in our hearts and minds. Those that do not obey will be judged come the day of judgement.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, thank you that your Words prompt me to diligent and serious in following you and your Word, that whenever you return, I will be prepared and not scared, prepared and not caught up in life and the world, and prepared and not dozing or asleep.
