Here comes the Judge

Jesus’ coming as judge was a large part of Paul’s message to new believers. He told the Athenians that the resurrection uniquely qualified Jesus to judge the world on a day set by the Father (Act 17:31). Jesus is also the one who rescues believers from the coming judgment (1Thes 1:10). We tend not to think much of Jesus in the role of judge. We have grown sleepy as the Judge tarries. The coming judgment provides motivation for us to remain alert and mission focused (1Thes 4:6). It also provides unbelievers with motive to surrender to Christ, throwing themselves on the mercy of the court while there is still time (Mat 5:25). Although it is unpopular, and politically incorrect, perhaps we should re-emphasize this truth about Jesus.