The Judgment Of God Is Real

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In the 1950s a young songwriter wrote these lyrics, “What a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see.” Christians will rejoice on that day. Those who haven’t accepted Christ won’t. Why? Because the judgment of God is real.

They will be punished with eternal destruction, forever separated from the Lord and from his glorious power.   2 Thessalonians 1:9

Let’s look at the verses before the verse we just read. The Apostle Paul commended the Thessalonians for their loving faith.

Dear brothers and sisters, we can’t help but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing. 2 Thessalonians 1:3

This church experienced much persecution and hardships. Paul implied how he bragged about the way they handled themselves through it all.

We proudly tell God’s other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering. 2 Thessalonians 1:4

He went on to say how much God would reward them. Also what the Lord would do to those causing their sufferings.

And God will use this persecution to show his justice and to make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering. In his justice he will pay back those who persecute you. 2 Thessalonians 1:5-6

The Apostle flipped the coin over in this conversation as he continued. I personally would rather talk about the love of God and the eternal home He is preparing for us.

How Real is the Judgment of God?

Judgment of God

But, there is another side of eternity we must talk about. This side tells us about eternal punishment.

He will come with his mighty angels, in flaming fire, bringing judgment on those who don’t know God and on those who refuse to obey the Good News of our Lord Jesus. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8

Then in verse 9, as we read earlier, it says they are punished with eternal destruction. And they are forever separated from the Lord. Please understand, the judgment of God is real.

I’ve heard non-believers joke about this. How they will meet all their friends there. They’ll have one big party. No, they won’t. They will be separated from God forever.

What do you think it will be like being thrust out of the presence of God? I hope no one reading this post will ever find out.

They might need to gasp for every breath forever. Or at least it may seem like gasping to breathe. The scripture mentions maggots and an eternal flame of torment.

Jesus made reference several times to those cast into outer darkness. Which is a place with no light at all. He also said, gnashing of teeth, meaning pain forever.

I’m not trying to use this as a scare tactic at all. I’m just painting the picture that’s already painted in the Bible.

As much as we believe there is a heaven. We can know without a shadow of a doubt the judgment of God is also real. Jesus even mentioned both of them in the same sentence.

And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life. Matthew 25:46

How a Person can Avoid the Judgment of God

can't Avoid the Judgment of God

Unless a person experiences a changed heart, nothing is stopping them from going to hell. Also, their salvation isn’t based on how good or bad they are.

It comes down to each person turning their heart to Jesus. And we don’t have to look far into the scripture to find proof of that.

Salvation Bible Verses

  • Everyone who believes in him (Jesus) will not perish. John 3:16
  • For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. Romans 3:25
  • The free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus. Romans 6:23
  • Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved. Acts 16:31
  • Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. John 14:6

Let’s take one more look at both sides of the eternity coin one before we pray. If you don’t know Jesus, take this next verse very seriously and turn to Him.

Anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 21:15

Now for those who do know Jesus, rejoice for the path you have chosen. And please pray for those who need Him.

When he comes on that day, he will receive glory from his holy people—praise from all who believe. And this includes you, for you believed what we told you about him. 2 Thessalonians 1:10

Check out this related post that will also help you. How To Survive The Judgment Of The Eternal Fire.

Lord, thank you for changing my heart. Today I lift up before you, my friends, and family members. Those, on their present path in life, are heading in the direction of being shut out of your presence.

Read the entire chapter of 2 Thessalonians 1.

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