The Truth Part 11: Progressive Christianity (1) – Sermon by Steven Loots
Read Jude 1:1-4
1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James,
To those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for[a] Jesus Christ:
2 Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
3 Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people. 4 For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about[b] long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.
Paul is writing this letter to believers.
- He expresses his desire to talk about their shared faith – about Salvation.
- However,
- he feels compelled to address a real issue facing the church.
- The problem of false teachers and teaching within their midst.
In verses 3 to 4 he makes clear the following;
“The faith” has been given to God’s people, once for all.
- There is nothing to add and nothing can be taken away, it can however be misinterpreted.
- This “faith” is in Jesus Christ the Messiah and is explained in the Gospel of Grace through faith.
- The Gospel reveals that every human being has a sin problem and is in need of a savior.
- This is why the world is in a mess – people sin against each other and against God.
- People, and therefore, any society cannot change without being born again.
- This is the Gospel of grace.
- We are sinners, destined for judgement.
- However, God sent his son to die in our place.
- We need to have a personal encounter with the living Christ.
- When we believe we are born again.
- His Holy Spirit comes and lives in us.
Paul’s audience knows these things. It has been revealed to them. They are believers, followers of Jesus Christ.
Now here’s the problem in verse 4 we read the following:
. 4 For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about[b] long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.
Paul’s answer to this problem is simple: he writes and says contend for the faith.
- We need to stand up for the truth.
- Truth matters.
- Our faith the Gospel is at stake.
- The enemy is among us.
- This danger is not coming from the outside, not from the world, not from a government, not from those who hate the church,
- but from inside the church.
- There are people who are perverting the grace of God into a license for immorality and who deny Jesus Christ our only Savior and Lord.
- This danger is not coming from the outside, not from the world, not from a government, not from those who hate the church,
Why are they doing this?
- Because of the immorality in the world that they find so appealing.
- They want both the church and the world.
- They want their consciences eased and they want to fulfil their desires.
- They want salvation without repentance and faith without sacrifice.
- They want to serve a god of their own making,
- who conforms to their view of the world rather than being transformed into the person God wants them to be.
- They want to shape the world into a form of Utopia based on their terms, using Christianity as a base and a justification for their worldview.
- They want to conform to the culture of the day.
- In the end, they want to be their own god.
- And in the process they are denying Jesus Christ as savior and Lord.
Today we are faced with a similar problem.
- From within the church a new gospel has arisen which denies the faith that was handed to us in the Bible.
- It denies the very basis of the faith/ of the Gospel
- it denies the fact that we need a personal savior because of sin and focuses rather on systemic
- It sees all the evils of the world as bound up in systemic racism systemic economic injustice, social injustice, poverty, inequality, sexual discrimination, and a variety of social ills.
- Basically society and not man must change.
What is progressive Christianity?
Progressive Christianity has its roots in liberal Christianity or liberal theology and has been around for a long time.
- It is in essence more than a different perspective but rather a different religion altogether.
- It is no longer actually Christianity.
- It has several names like liberal Christianity or the emerging church or progressive Christianity – they’re really all the same.
Progressive Christianity is a movement within the wider global church
- It is widespread
- Many if not most churches are feeling its influence to some degree.
- It is propagated by some of the most well known and loved teachers of our time.
- In most churches there are individuals who hold onto its core beliefs
- It is found in whole congregations and even in large denominations.
- In some instances, pastors are teaching it without even realizing what they’re doing as they have been influenced by its proponents – the popular teachers and writers of our day.
- In other cases, it is openly celebrated.
Progressive Christianity represents a wide range of people
- This includes moderates who would openly proclaim that they believe in the authority of the Bible yet dismiss key passages they see is problematic
- and liberals who are merely slightly religious.
- While there is a strong connection to liberal politics, at its core progressive Christianity is based on postmodern or liberal theology this theology abhors certainty and celebrates mystery which makes it fertile ground for influence from the Mystics.
- It hates the certainty of a gospel where people can say with conviction “I am saved” or “there is only one way to God, through Jesus Christ” or even the mere fact that Christianity is God’s answer to the world.
- It denies the full authority of the scripture and it stands opposed to biblical Christianity.
- It cannot handle the idea of personal accountability one day before God or the doctrine of hell.
- It is being taught in Bible Schools and seminaries.
- It has gained momentum with the growing popularity of the Mystics and in particular Richard Rohr.
- Whole denominations are facing this threat: Methodists, Episcopalians, Lutherans, Anglicans and even the Catholics are seeing multiple churches embracing this teaching.
- Independent churches are being swallowed whole or being planted on the basic tenants of progressive Christianity even evangelicals are feeling the pressure.
- Mission movements and ministries – especially those who are populated by younger believers are moving in this direction – effecting how they share the gospel, or what they believe what it means to fulfill the Great Commission.
Why is it growing?
Many people, especially younger people, are attracted to it because of its emphasis on social justice, fairness, love, the environment and equity. it appeals to our idea of what God should do and what society should look like. It answers questions that the church has stopped asking.
The challenge of dealing with progressive Christianity is that most of what it says is partially true.
- Dealing with half-truths is more difficult than dealing with outright lies.
- It sounds so appealing.
- It speaks to our idea of fairness and our concern for those less privileged.
- Those who have not heard the gospel.
- It universalizes faith.
- It calls on us to be unified with all people,
- to agree with people
- to be open minded,
- to accept people whoever they are,
- not to judge people,
- and to create a just society.
- All of this seems good. One could ask is this not what Jesus would want us to do?
- However, it denies the truth of Scripture, selecting only those passages that confirm its prejudices and denying the power of the gospel and the uniqueness of Christ.
We might be tempted to argue that we need to find middle ground with the culture of our day
- including when it comes to moral positions and mainly as far as sexual ethics are concerned.
- While this seems reasonable it is at direct odds was faithfully sticking to God’s word.
- For progressive Christians, disagreement equals hate, while we say that we can love you and still speak truth into your life.
- We are entering a time we will have to take a stand.
- There’s nowhere to hide.
- We need to struggle for the faith:
- the faith found in Scripture.
- even though it will make us very unpopular.
- This might very well be the persecution of our day, cultural persecution, where you either cave to progressive Christianity or face the cancel culture.
In the following weeks we will examine some of its teachings and see how it is influencing the church and why we need to contend for the faith in these days.
The Truth Part 11: Progressive Christianity (1) – Sermon by Steven Loots
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Os crentes que estão sendo perseguidos no norte de Moçambique precisam de suas orações
Alguns de nós somos chamados a ir e outros a dar, mas todos nós temos a capacidade de orar fielmente. Muitas vezes ouvimos sobre extremistas islâmicos que desejam estabelecer estados islâmicos em certas partes do mundo. Na maioria das vezes, essas regiões incluem o Oriente Médio e grande parte do norte da África, mas agora também é uma dura realidade em Moçambique.
A província mais ao norte de Moçambique é chamada de Cabo Delgado – está situada na fronteira com a Tanzânia. A situação nesta província se agravou desde 2014. Isso se deve ao fato de que o grupo extremista muçulmano Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah, com fortes ligações ao Ísis (Estado Islâmico), iniciou um regime de terror. Eles mataram mais de 1.000 pessoas em ataques horríveis. Mais de 210 mil pessoas foram obrigadas a abandonar as suas casas e vivem agora como refugiadas.
A situação no norte de Moçambique está piorando a cada dia. Pessoas inocentes precisam fugir de suas casas. As crianças estão perdendo seus pais. Estas crianças são sendo privadas de uma infância normal – não podem ir à escola, não podem brincar ao ar livre e têm de deixar as suas casas para sobreviver.
Durante esses tempos difíceis, é importante manter a esperança. No entanto, é impossível para alguém manter a esperança se não conhece Jesus. Suas orações podem desempenhar um papel vital na mudança de vidas em Moçambique.
Lemos na Palavra de Deus em Mateus 18: 19-20 que Ele está conosco quando oramos, Ele ouve nossas orações: “Mais uma vez, em verdade vos digo que se dois de vocês concordarem na terra sobre qualquer coisa que pedirem, isso será feito por meu Pai que está no Céu. Pois onde dois ou três se reunirem em meu nome, aí estou eu no meio deles”.
Clique no link abaixo para baixar o guia de oração deste mês e ore com fervor pelo povo de Cabo Delgado, Moçambique.
https://www.harvestersministries.com/pt/guia-de-oracao/
Ore para que Deus lhes dê a força, sabedoria e coragem necessárias para enfrentar esta terrível situação. Peça ao
Senhor para abrir o caminho para que os Harvesters possam oferecer conforto, abrigo e refúgio para aqueles que estão sem esperança. Ore para que aqueles que são incrédulos tenham a oportunidade de ouvir o Evangelho e aceitar a Jesus Cristo.
Em 1 João 5:15 somos lembrados de que Deus responde às orações de Seus filhos: “E se sabemos que Ele nos ouve em tudo o que pedimos, sabemos que já alcançamos os pedidos que Lhe fizemos”.
Suas orações fazem a diferença. Deus ainda faz milagres e ainda está no controle. Obrigado por orar conosco.
Persecuted Believers in Northern Mozambique Need Your Prayers
Some of us are called to go and others are called to give, but all of us have the ability to pray faithfully. Many times we hear about Islamic extremists who want to establish Islamic states in certain parts of the world. Most of the time these regions include the Middle East and large parts of northern Africa, but now it is also a harsh reality in Mozambique.
The most northern province in Mozambique, is Cabo Delgado – it is situated on the border of Tanzania. The situation in this province has worsened since 2014. This is due to the fact that the extremist Muslim group, Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah, with strong connections to Isis (Islamic State) have started a terror regime. They have killed more than 1 000 people in horrific attacks. More than 250 000 people were forced to flee their homes and are now living as refugees.
The situation in northern Mozambique is getting worse every day. Innocent people have to flee their homes. Children are losing their parents. These children are deprived of a normal childhood – they cannot go to school, they cannot play outside and they have to leave their homes behind in order to survive.
During these dire times it is important to hold onto hope. It is however impossible for someone to hold onto hope if they do not know Jesus. Your prayers can play a vital role in changing lives in Mozambique.
We read in the Word of God in Matthew 18: 19-20 that He is with us when we pray, He hears our prayers, “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Pray with us that God will give them the necessary strength, wisdom and courage to face this terrible situation. Ask the Lord 
to open the way for Harvesters Ministries to offer comfort, shelter and refuge to those who are left without hope. Pray that those who are unbelievers will have the opportunity to hear the Gospel and accept Jesus Christ.
In 1 John 5:15 we are reminded that God answers the prayers of His children, “And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.”
Your prayers make a difference. God still does miracles and He is still in control. Thank you for praying with us.
A verdade – Parte 10: Julgamento e Inferno
Introdução
O que acontece com um incrédulo após a morte e quando o dia do julgamento chegar?
A Segunda Ressurreição – A Ressurreição dos Incrédulos
11 Então vi um grande trono branco e O que estava sentado nele. A terra e os céus fugiram de sua presença e não havia lugar para eles. 12 E vi os mortos, grandes e pequenos, em pé diante do trono, e os livros foram abertos. Outro livro foi aberto, que é o livro da vida. Os mortos foram julgados de acordo com o que fizeram, conforme registrado nos livros. 13 O mar entregou os mortos que nele havia, e a morte e o inferno entregaram os mortos que neles havia; e cada um foi julgado de acordo com o que havia feito. 14 Então a morte e o inferno foram lançados no lago de fogo. O lago de fogo é a segunda morte. 15 Todo aquele cujo nome não foi achado escrito no livro da vida, foi lançado no lago de fogo. Apocalipse 20:11-15.
O castigo eterno dos perdidos
Este não é um assunto para ser considerado levianamente. Não é fácil estudar, ensinar ou pregar. Estamos lidando com as almas imortais de outros seres humanos –
- Muitas vezes até de pessoas que amamos ternamente.
Inferno – um assunto impopular
Muitos hoje –
- Mesmo na igreja – consideram o ensino do inferno ofensivo.
- Alguns pastores nunca falaram sobre isso e às vezes acham que devem se desculpar em nome de Deus e da Bíblia porque o tema é mencionado na Palavra.
Escritores populares assumiram a responsabilidade de dizer que o inferno não existe,
- Que um Deus amoroso nunca condenaria alguém a uma eternidade de sofrimento,
- E que tudo será perdoado.
- Alguns proclamam que a punição será como ser incinerado instantaneamente;
- Não deixando nada para trás.
Teorias Falsas
- Imortalidade condicional.
- Esta teoria é construída sobre o erro de que todos os que não recebem a vida eterna morrerão como animais e serão aniquilados ou eliminados da existência.
- Afirma que a imortalidade está condicionada ao recebimento do dom da vida eterna.
- Se alguém morrer sem ter o dom da vida eterna, não será punido com o tormento eterno. Ele será aniquilado.
- Universalismo. A teoria universalista sustenta a ideia de redenção universal.
- Por exemplo, um certo número de referências das Escrituras são usadas para provar que Cristo morreu por todos os homens igualmente.
- Portanto, todos os homens serão salvos no final.
- O universalismo usa textos como o de Paulo quando disse: “Pregamos, advertindo a cada homem e ensinando a cada homem em toda a sabedoria; para que possamos apresentar todo homem perfeito em Cristo Jesus ”(Colossenses 1:28).
- Certamente, o Apóstolo não poderia querer dizer que esperava que todo homem que já veio ao mundo se tornasse perfeito em Cristo.
- As palavras “todo homem” podem referir-se apenas àqueles a quem Paulo dirigiu sua epístola; a saber, “Aos santos e irmãos fiéis em Cristo” (1:2).
- Esta teoria não nega que todos os homens estão perdidos pelo pecado, mas afirma que todos os homens finalmente serão salvos e entrarão na vida eterna.
- O universalismo cai quando ignora o fato bíblico de que a salvação e a vida eterna não são aplicadas a ninguém além de sua aceitação pessoal dela como um presente divinamente concedido a “todo aquele que O receber“.
- A Teoria da Restauração.
- Esta visão, chamada por algum Restitucionismo, apela ao universalista no sentido de que não nega que todos os homens estão perdidos, mas que algum dia, em algum lugar, toda a criação (incluindo Satanás e os anjos caídos) será restaurada ou reconciliada com Deus.
- Sendo contrário à razão e ao bom senso, a pessoa média rotula esta visão como absurda.
- Mas vamos olhar para dois textos que são usados para formar a base da falsa visão do Restitucionismo.
- As palavras de nosso Senhor são citadas: “E eu, se for levantado da terra, a todos atrairei a mim” (João 12:32). Devemos ter cuidado para que essas palavras de Cristo não nos levem a crer no ensino herético do Restitucionismo.
- Nosso Salvador nunca quis que todos os homens finalmente fossem salvos por Sua crucificação. Dr. AC Gaebelein em seu comentário sobre “O Evangelho de João” diz: “A analogia de outros textos mostra claramente que o único sentido razoável é que a crucificação de Cristo teria uma influência ‘atraente’ sobre os homens de todas as nações, gentios também como judeus. ” Mas também é bem possível que esse versículo tenha uma aplicação futura. No versículo anterior (31), que foi dado em conexão com o versículo trinta e dois, Jesus falou do futuro, quando “o príncipe deste mundo será expulso”. Na verdade, naquele dia, “todos os homens” serão atraídos a Ele ”.
- Eles gostam de usar Filipenses 2:10-11, 10 para que ao nome de Jesus todo joelho se dobre, no céu e na terra e sob a terra, 11 e toda língua reconheça que Jesus Cristo é o Senhor, para a glória de Deus o pai.
- Esta é uma má interpretação do texto. O que está dizendo é que toda a criação se curvará diante de Cristo – não diz que todos serão salvos. Satanás e seus demônios, descrentes e todos os que rejeitaram a Cristo reconhecerão que Jesus é o Senhor – com medo e tremor.
- Esta visão, chamada por algum Restitucionismo, apela ao universalista no sentido de que não nega que todos os homens estão perdidos, mas que algum dia, em algum lugar, toda a criação (incluindo Satanás e os anjos caídos) será restaurada ou reconciliada com Deus.
Um escritor disse: “O último julgamento na Bíblia será o dos mortos não salvos que se apresentarão diante do Grande Trono Branco em corpos vivos e ressuscitados para receber sua sentença final de condenação e serem lançados no lago de fogo. Este não será um julgamento para ver se os pecadores estão perdidos, pois eles já estão perdidos porque “quem não crê já está condenado” (João 3:18). Os cristãos estarão presentes, mas apenas como testemunhas. Os julgados serão aqueles da Segunda Ressurreição cujos corpos foram retirados da sepultura e cujos espíritos foram trazidos do Inferno. ”
- Este julgamento é para descrentes –
- O não-salvo.
- Todos estão diante de Deus – ressuscitados dos mortos – eles têm corpos físicos e estão condenados à morte.
- Todos estes irão para o inferno eterno.
- Eles não têm desculpa.
- Deus chama todos os homens ao arrependimento e eles devem fazer uma escolha: 30 No passado, Deus ignorava essa ignorância, mas agora ele ordena que todas as pessoas em todos os lugares se arrependam. 31 Porque fixou o dia em que julgará o mundo com justiça pelo Homem que designou. Ele deu prova disso a todos ao ressuscitá-Lo dos mortos. ” Atos 17:30-31.
Argumentando contra o Inferno com base no Amor de Deus
A consequência natural e inevitável do pecado é a punição.
- A punição adequada de uma criança não nega o amor dos pais.
- “O pecado condena tão certo como o fogo arde, e Deus está justificado em pôr em vigor a lei imortal de que“ tudo o que o homem semear, isso também ceifará ”(Gálatas 6:8).”
Inferno – um lugar literal de punição futura
- O inferno é um lugar.
- Inferno é real.
- O inferno é doloroso. Lucas 16:24-26: 24 E ele o chamou: ‘Pai Abraão, tem piedade de mim e manda Lázaro molhar a ponta do dedo na água e me refrescar a língua, porque neste fogo estou em agonia.’ 25“Mas Abraão respondeu: ‘Filho, lembra-te de que durante a tua vida recebeste os teus bens, enquanto Lázaro recebeu somente males, mas agora ele está aqui consolado e tu estás em agonia. 26 E, além de tudo isso, entre nós e você um grande abismo foi colocado, de modo que aqueles que querem ir daqui para você não podem, nem ninguém pode passar de lá para nós. ‘
- O inferno está quente. “… correrão perigo de fogo do inferno” Mateus 5:22 “… e lançados no fogo (Mateus 7:19).
- O inferno é um lugar de angústia. “.. haverá pranto e ranger de dentes Mateus 13:41-42.
- O inferno é eterno. 8 Ele punirá aqueles que não conhecem a Deus e não obedecem ao evangelho de nosso Senhor Jesus. 9 Eles serão punidos com destruição eterna e excluídos da presença do Senhor e da glória de seu poder. 2 Tessalonicenses 1: 8-9.
- Satanás e seu demônio serão punidos no inferno. Apocalipse 20:10: 10 E o diabo, que os enganava, foi lançado no lago de enxofre ardente, onde a besta e o falso profeta haviam sido lançados. Eles serão atormentados dia e noite para todo o sempre.
- Todos os não-salvos estarão lá para sempre. Apocalipse 20:14-15: 14 Então a morte e o inferno foram lançados no lago de fogo. O lago de fogo é a segunda morte. 15 Todo aquele cujo nome não foi achado escrito no livro da vida, foi lançado no lago de fogo.
- Todos os que pecaram estarão no inferno. Apocalipse 21:8. 8 Mas os covardes, os incrédulos, os vis, os assassinos, os sexualmente imorais, aqueles que praticam artes mágicas, os idólatras e todos os mentirosos – eles serão enviados para o lago de enxofre ardente. Esta é a segunda morte.”
- O inferno é infinito. A Bíblia usa repetidamente frases como “eterno” e “para todo o sempre” para descrever o inferno.
Jesus estava falando sério sobre o inferno. Ele mencionou o inferno mais do que o céu. 28 “Não se espantem com isso, pois chegará o tempo em que todos os que estão em seus túmulos ouvirão sua voz 29 e sairão – aqueles que fizeram o que é bom ressuscitarão para a vida, e os que fizeram o que é mau ressurgirão para serem condenados. 30 Por mim mesmo, nada posso fazer; Julgo apenas quando ouço, e meu julgamento é justo, pois não procuro agradar a mim mesmo, mas àquele que me enviou. João 5:28-30.
The Truth (Part 10): Judgement and Hell – Sermon by Steven Loots
Introduction
What happens to an unbeliever after death and when Judgement day comes?
The Second Resurrection – the resurrection of unbelievers
11 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:11- 15.
The Eternal Punishment of the Lost
This is not a subject to be taken lightly. It is not easy to study, to teach or to preach. We are dealing with the immortal souls of other human beings –
- often even of people we love dearly.
Hell – An Unpopular Subject
Many today –
- even in the church – find the teaching of hell offensive.
- Some pastors have never spoken of it and sometimes feel that they must make excuses for God and for the Bible because it is mentioned in the Word.
Popular writers have taken it on themselves to say that hell does not exist,
- that a loving God would never condemn someone to an eternity of suffering,
- and that all will be forgiven.
- Some proclaim that punishment will be instantaneous burning up –
- leaving nothing behind.
False Theories
- Conditional Immortality.
- This theory is built on the error that all who do not receive everlasting life will die as the animals and be annihilated or wiped out of existence.
- It contends that immortality is conditional upon receiving the gift of everlasting life.
- If anyone dies not having the gift of everlasting life he shall not be punished with everlasting torment. He shall be annihilated.
- Universalism. The universalistic theory holds the idea of universal redemption.
- For example, a certain number of Scripture references are used to prove that Christ died for all men alike.
- Therefore, all men alike shall be saved in the end.
- Universalism uses such texts as Paul’s when he said: “We preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus” (Colossians 1:28).
- Certainly, the Apostle could not have meant that he expected every man that ever came into the world to be made perfect in Christ.
- The words “every man” could refer only to those to whom Paul addressed his Epistle; namely, “To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ” (1:2).
- This theory does not deny that all men are lost by sin, but it contends that all men will finally be saved and enter into everlasting life.
- Universalism falls when it overlooks the Biblical fact that salvation and everlasting life are applied to no-one apart from his personal acceptance of it as a divinely bestowed gift to “whosoever will.”
- The Restoration Theory.
- This view, called by some Restitutionism, appeals to the universalist in that it does not deny that all men are lost, but that sometime, somewhere, all creation (including Satan and the fallen angels) will be restored or reconciled to God.
- Being contrary to reason and common sense, the average person labels this view as preposterous.
- But let us look at two texts that are used to form the basis of the false view of Restitutionism.
- The words of our Lord are quoted: “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me” (John 12:32). We must exercise care that these words of Christ do not lead us to believe the heretical teaching of Restitutionism.
- Our Saviour never meant that all men finally shall be saved by His crucifixion. Dr. A. C. Gaebelein in his commentary on “The Gospel of John” says: “The analogy of other texts shows plainly that the only reasonable sense is, that Christ’s crucifixion would have a ‘drawing’ influence on men of all nations, Gentiles as well as Jews.” But it is quite possible also that this verse has a future application. In the preceding verse (31) which was given in connection with verse thirty-two, Jesus spoke of the future when “the prince of this world shall be cast out.” Of a truth, in that day “all men” will be drawn unto Him.”[1]
- They like to use Philippians 2:10, 11, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
- This is a bad interpretation of the text. What it is saying is that all of creation will bow before Christ – it does not say that all will be saved. Satan and his demons, unbelievers and everyone who rejected Christ will acknowledge Jesus is Lord – in fear and trembling.
- This view, called by some Restitutionism, appeals to the universalist in that it does not deny that all men are lost, but that sometime, somewhere, all creation (including Satan and the fallen angels) will be restored or reconciled to God.
- For example, a certain number of Scripture references are used to prove that Christ died for all men alike.
One writer said: “The last judgement in the Bible will be that of the unsaved dead who will stand before the Great White Throne in living, resurrected bodies to receive their final sentence of doom and be cast into the lake of fire. This will not be a judgement to see if sinners are lost, for they are lost already because “he that believeth not is condemned already” (John 3:18). Christians will be present, but only as witnesses. The judged will be those of the Second Resurrection whose bodies have been brought out of the grave and whose spirits brought back from Hell.”[2]
- This judgement is for unbelievers –
- the unsaved.
- All are standing before God – raised from the dead – they have physical bodies and they are condemned to die.
- All of these will go to eternal hell.
- They have no excuse.
- God calls all men to repentance and they must make a choice: 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.” Acts 17:30-31.
Arguing Against Hell from the Love of God
The natural and inevitable consequence of sin is punishment.
- Proper punishment of a child does not negate the love of the parent.
- “Sin condemns just as sure as fire burns, and God is justified in putting into effect the immortal law that “whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:8).”[3]
Hell – A Literal Place of Future Punishment
- Hell is a place.
- Hell is real.
- Hell is painful. Luke 16:24 – 26: 24 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’ 25 “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’
- Hell is hot. “…shall be in danger of hell fire” Matthew 5:22 “… and cast into the fire (Matthew 7:19).
- Hell is a place of anguish. “.. there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth Matthew 13: 41, 42.
- Hell is everlasting. 8 He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9 They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might. 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9.
- Satan and his demon will be punished in hell. Revelation 20:10: 10 And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.
- All the unsaved will be there forever. Revelation 20:14-15: 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.
- All who have sinned will be in hell. Revelation 21:8. 8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”
- Hell is endless. The Bible repeatedly uses phrases like “eternal” and “forever and ever” to describe hell.
Jesus was serious about hell. He mentioned hell more than he mentioned heaven. 28 “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice 29 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. 30 By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me. John 5:28-30.
[1] Strauss, L
[2] id
[3] Strauss, L
The Truth Part 10: Judgement and Hell – Sermon by Steven Loots
[buzzsprout episode=’7368484′ player=’true’]
A verdade – Parte 9: O tribunal de Cristo e o Céu
Introdução
O que acontece depois da morte
- Julgamento de todos,
- Diferente para crentes e não crentes,
- Muitos ficam constrangidos com isso, como se Deus estivesse cometendo um erro.
Crentes:
O Tribunal de Cristo
10 Você, então, por que julga seu irmão ou irmã? Ou por que você os trata com desprezo? Pois todos nós iremos comparecer perante o tribunal de Deus. 11 Está escrito: “’Tão certo quanto Eu vivo’, diz o Senhor, ‘todo joelho se dobrará diante de mim; toda língua reconhecerá a Deus ‘”. 12 Portanto, cada um de nós prestará contas de si mesmo a Deus. Romanos 14:10-12.
10 Pois todos devemos comparecer perante o tribunal de Cristo, para que cada um de nós receba o que nos é devido pelas coisas que fizemos no corpo, sejam boas ou más. 2 Coríntios 5:10.
A palavra grega para a cadeira de julgamento é “Bema”, que se refere ao assento do juiz nos Jogos Olímpicos. O juiz não está lá para julgar o pecado, mas para apresentar a sentença. Quando estivermos diante do “bema” de Cristo, receberemos com alegria as recompensas que ele nos prometeu por obras de fé. Não há medo diante do bema.
João 5: 22 nos diz que Jesus é o Juiz no bema.
“Quando Jesus vier, todo cristão morto ou vivo será incluído na grande multidão que estará diante do bema de Cristo. Estaremos lá, não apenas como espectadores ou testemunhas. O Santo Juiz não precisará de ninguém para testemunhar. Naquele dia, Sua palavra permanecerá. “Ele conhecia todos os homens e não precisava de que alguém testificasse do homem: porque sabia o que havia no homem” (João 2:24-25). ”
Somente os filhos de Deus verdadeiramente nascidos de novo aparecerão diante do bema.
“Todos os iníquos mortos (descrentes) serão julgados no Grande Trono Branco após o reinado de mil anos de Cristo na terra. Mas os súditos aos quais o apóstolo Paulo dirigiu suas mensagens quando disse: “Todos devemos comparecer”, foram exclusivamente os santos dos quais Paulo se considerava um. “
As obras do cristão serão testadas
É muito importante que os crentes entendam como as recompensas serão ganhas e perdidas:
9 Pois somos cooperadores no serviço de Deus; você é o campo de Deus, o edifício de Deus. 10 Pela graça que Deus me deu, lancei um alicerce de sábio construtor, e outra pessoa está construindo sobre ele. Mas cada um deve construir com cuidado. 11 Porque ninguém pode lançar outro fundamento senão aquele já posto, que é Jesus Cristo. 12 Se alguém construir sobre este alicerce usando ouro, prata, pedras preciosas, madeira, feno ou palha, 13 seu trabalho será mostrado como ele é, porque o Dia o trará à luz. Será revelado com fogo, e o fogo testará a qualidade do trabalho de cada pessoa. 14 Se o que foi construído sobreviver, o construtor receberá uma recompensa. 15 Se for queimado, o construtor sofrerá perdas, mas ainda será salvo – mesmo que apenas como alguém que escapa pelas chamas. 1 Coríntios 3:9-15
Somos salvos pela graça – Esta é a justificação
Não Salvos Justificação Santificação Glorificação
A Cruz Vida em Cristo Morte / Segunda vinda / Bema
- Não podemos fazer nada, exceto aceitar este presente gratuito de Deus.
- Quando aceitamos Jesus, não precisamos mais comparecer ao Grande Trono Branco para que nossos pecados sejam julgados.
- O alicerce é Cristo.
- Como e com o que construiremos?
- Somos chamados a viver pela fé e a fazer boas obras EM Cristo
-
- Santificação – depois de virmos a Jesus.
- (Efésios 2)
- Na morte – Glorificação
-
- No bema nossos trabalhos serão julgados.
- Feno, palha e madeira.
-
- Nossas obras ruins serão queimadas
- Ouro, prata e pedras preciosas
-
- E nossas boas obras recompensadas.
- Não é possível perder sua salvação, mas é possível perder suas recompensas.
- Alguns chegarão ao céu “como que pelo fogo”.
- Precisamos acumular recompensas no céu.
-
- A Bíblia espera que façamos.
- Veja: Lucas 17:7-10; Mateus 10:1-16 e Mateus 25:14-30.
Recompensas e coroas – os santos vão diferir no céu
41 O sol tem um tipo de esplendor, a lua outro e as estrelas outro; e estrela difere de estrela em esplendor.
42 Assim será com a ressurreição dos mortos.
“Todo cristão receberá um corpo celestial na Ressurreição, mas esses corpos serão diferentes na glória que cada um possuirá e desfrutará no céu. Paulo nos pede para notar como as estrelas diferem em glória, algumas brilhando com maior brilho do que outras.
Então ele conclui: “Assim também é a ressurreição dos mortos”. Todos os crentes terão corpos glorificados, mas haverá diferença na glória de acordo com a medida de nossa diligência e devoção a Cristo e Sua obra. Tenho três moedas nas mãos. Uma é ouro, uma é prata e a terceira é cobre. Todos os três apresentam a mesma inscrição do Brasil. No entanto, a glória do ouro é uma glória, a glória da prata é uma glória menor e a glória do cobre ainda é uma glória menor do que o ouro ou a prata. Assim também é a ressurreição dos mortos. Cada um dos corpos dos salvos terá a marca glorificada e celestial de distinção, mas a glória de alguns será diferente da glória de outros. Nossa capacidade de servir na Terra levaremos para o Céu conosco quando Jesus vier. ”
As coroas ou recompensas
No “Bema”, o Tribunal de Cristo, os cristãos receberão recompensas por suas obras. No Novo Testamento, aprendemos que essas são chamadas de “coroas” e que existem cinco dessas “coroas” a serem dadas.
- A coroa Incorruptível. 1 Coríntios 9:25.
- A Coroa de Alegria. 1 Tessalonicenses 2:19, 20
- A Coroa da Justiça. 2 Timóteo 4: 8
- A Coroa da Vida. Tiago 1:12 e Apocalipse 2:10.
- A Coroa de Glória. 1 Pedro 5: 2-5
Precisamos cuidar de como vivemos na terra, embora sejamos salvos:
23 Faça o que fizer, trabalhe de todo o seu coração, como trabalhando para o Senhor, não para senhores humanos, 24 porque você sabe que receberá uma herança do Senhor como recompensa. É ao Senhor Cristo que você está servindo. 25 Quem errar será recompensado por seus erros e não há favoritismo. Colossenses 3:23-25
Céu – A casa dos redimidos
- O céu é real.
- Existe um lugar chamado Céu “Desci do Céu”. João 6:38.
- O céu também foi o lugar para o qual Ele ascendeu após Sua ressurreição. Lucas 24:51 diz:
51 Enquanto ele os abençoava, ele os deixou e foi elevado ao céu.
- É o lugar onde a glória e o poder de Deus são apresentados. Jesus está lá agora, 1 Agora, o ponto principal do que estamos dizendo é o seguinte: Temos esse sumo sacerdote, que se sentou à direita do trono da Majestade no céu. Hebreus 8:1.
- Temos um lar no céu. João 14:2-4: 2 A casa de meu Pai tem muitas moradas; se não fosse assim, eu teria lhe dito que vou lá preparar um lugar para você? 3 E se eu for preparar um lugar para você, voltarei e o levarei para estar comigo, para que você também esteja onde eu estou. 4 Você conhece o caminho para o lugar para onde estou indo ”.
- Os verdadeiros crentes são cidadãos do céu. Filipenses 3:20: 20 Mas nossa cidadania está no céu. E esperamos ansiosamente um Salvador de lá, o Senhor Jesus Cristo.
- O céu é perfeito. É chamada de Cidade Santa. Apocalipse 21:2
- O céu é um lugar de comunhão entre o homem e Deus. Mateus 5:8 e Hebreus 12:22-24.
- O céu é um lugar de atividade. “Nós O serviremos.” Apocalipse 22:3.
- O céu é um lugar onde não há dor, sofrimento ou lágrimas.
- O céu é um lugar de prazer. Salmo 16:11.
- O céu é um lugar de adoração. Apocalipse 4:10-11.
The Truth (Part 9): The Judgement Seat of Christ and Heaven – Sermon by Steven Loots
Introduction
What happens after death
- Judgement of all,
- Different for believers and unbelievers,
- Many are embarrassed by this as if God were making a mistake.
Believers:
The Judgement Seat of Christ
10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. 11 It is written: “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’” 12 So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. Romans 14:10 – 12.
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 2 Corinthians 5:10.
The word in the Greek for the judgement seat is “Bema” which refers to the judge’s seat at the Olympic games. The judge was not there to judge sin but to present awards. When we stand before the “bema” of Christ we will joyfully receive the rewards that he has promised us for works of faith. There is no fear before the bema.
John 5: 22 tells us that Jesus is the judge on the bema.
“ When Jesus comes, every Christian dead or alive, will be included in the great throng that will stand before the bema of Christ. We will be there, not merely as spectators or witnesses. The Holy Judge will not need anyone to witness. In that day His word shall stand. “He knew all men, and needed not that any should testify of man: for He knew what was in man” (John 2: 24 – 25).”[1]
Only truly born-again children of God will appear before the bema.
“All the wicked dead (unbelievers) will be judged at the Great White Throne after the one thousand year reign of Christ on earth. But the subjects to whom the Apostle Paul addressed his messages when he said, “We must all appear,” were exclusively the saints of whom Paul considered himself one. “[2]
The Christian’s Works Will be Tested
It is very important that believers understand how rewards will be won and lost:
9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. 10 By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. 14 If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. 15 If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames. 1 Corinthians 3: 9 – 15
We are saved by grace – This is Justification
Unsaved Justification Sanctification Glorification
The Cross Life in Christ Death/ Second coming Bema
- we can do nothing except to accept this free gift from God.
- When we accept Jesus we no longer need to appear before the Great White Throne to have our sin judged.
- Foundation is Christ
- How and with what will we build?
- We are called to live by faith and to do good works IN Christ
- Sanctification– after we have come to Jesus.
- (Ephesians 2)
- At death – Glorification
- At the bema our works will be judged.
- Hay, wood straw
- Our bad works will be burnt up
- Gold Silver and Precious stones
- and our good works rewarded.
- It is not possible to lose your salvation but it is possible to lose your rewards.
- Some will arrive in heaven “as though through fire”.
- We need to build up rewards in heaven.
- The Bible expects us to.
- See: Luke 17:7-10; Matthew 10:1-16 and Matthew 25:14-30.
Rewards and crowns – Saints Will Differ in Heaven
41 The sun has one kind of splendour, the moon another and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendour. 42 So will it be with the resurrection of the dead.
“Every Christian will be given a celestial body in the Resurrection, but these bodies will differ in the glory that each shall possess and enjoy in Heaven. Paul asks us to notice how the stars differ in glory, some shining with a greater brilliance than others.
Then he concludes: “So also is the resurrection of the dead.” All believers will have glorified bodies, but there will be difference in glory according to the measure of our diligence and devotedness to Christ and His work. I hold in my hand three coins. One is gold, one is silver and the third is copper. All three bear the same inscription of the United States of America. However, the glory of the gold is one glory, the glory of the silver is a lesser glory, and the glory of the copper is yet a lesser glory than either the gold or the silver. So also is the resurrection of the dead. Each of the bodies of the saved will bear the glorified and heavenly mark of distinction, but the glory of some will differ from the glory of others. Our capacity to serve in Heaven we will take to Heaven with us when Jesus comes.”[3]
The Crowns or Rewards
At the “Bema”, the Judgment Seat of Christ, Christians will receive rewards for their works. In the New Testament we learn that these are called “crowns” and that there are five such “crowns” to be given.
- The Incorruptible Crown. 1 Corinthians 9:25.
- The Crown of Rejoicing. 1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20
- The Crown of Righteousness. 2 Timothy 4:8
- The Crown of Life. James 1:12 and Revelation 2:10.
- The Crown of Glory. 1 Peter 5:2-5
We need to take heed of how we live on earth even though we are saved:
23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favouritism. Colossians 3:23-25
Heaven – The Home of the Redeemed
- Heaven is real.
- There Is a Place Called Heaven “I came down from Heaven”. John 6:38.
- Heaven was also the place to which He ascended after His resurrection. Luke 24:51 says 51 While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven.
- It is the place where the glory and power of God are set forth. Jesus is there now, 1 Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven. Hebrews 8:1.
- We have a home in heaven. John 14:2 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.”
- True believers are citizens of heaven. Philippians 3:20 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.
- Heaven is perfect. It is called the Holy City (Revelation 21:2)
- Heaven is a place of fellowship between man and God. Matthew 5:8 and Hebrews 12:22 – 24.
- Heaven is a place of activity. “We will serve Him” Revelation 22:3.
Heaven is a place where there is no pain, suffering or tears.
[1] id
[2] Strauss, L
[3] Strauss, L
The Truth Part 9: The Judgement Seat of Christ – Sermon by Steven Loots
[buzzsprout episode=’7368430′ player=’true’]
The Word of God Changes Communities in Lesotho
It has been difficult, and in most cases nearly impossible to travel, due to the COVID-19 lockdown regulations that has been implemented in many countries across the globe. Lesotho has been an exception to the rule. Representatives of Harvesters Ministries were able to travel within the country and minister churches.
One of the highlights of the team was to visit three newly planted churches – their pastors and congregations. These believers who live in this mountainous kingdom is ready to spread the Gospel and reach the unreached with God’s Word.
You have helped us to reach Pastor Motsapi village, Ha Moosi. This small village is one hour’s drive from Semonkong. One can only reach this village by travelling on dirt roads, mountain passes and eventually walking the rest of the way.
When walking into the village, the first thing that can be heard is the singing of the congregation. Seeing those smiling faces makes all the effort worthwhile. The sun shining on the green hills is truly breath-taking and a highlight of God’s masterpiece.
Pastor Motsapi is one of the pastors who received Bibles for his congregations during the January Bible Placement. Harvesters Ministries’ project, Bibles for Believers, provides pastors and student pastors of newly planted churches with Bibles. However, this is not possible without the help of generous donors like you.
Pastor Motsapi is forever thankful that he received Bibles for his congregations. The Word of God is changing this community!
There is however always a need for more Bibles – especially in a rural and remote country such as Lesotho where the majority of the population live in poverty. They do not have the means to purchase a Bible of their own.
Believers receiving Bibles always rejoice. They are overwhelmed by these precious gifts.
The importance of the Gospel is highlighted in Mark 16:15 “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” There are still thousands more believers in Lesotho who are in need of a Bible of their own. The only way a believer can grow in his or her faith is by studying the Word of God.
Would you prayerfully consider sponsoring a Bible for a believer?
A Verdade – Parte 8 : Julgamento
24Em verdade vos digo: quem ouve a minha palavra e crê Naquele que me enviou, tem a vida eterna e não será julgado, mas passou da morte para a vida. 25 Em verdade vos digo que vem o tempo, e já é chegado, em que os mortos ouvirão a voz do Filho de Deus e os que a ouvirem viverão. 26 Pois assim como o Pai tem vida em si mesmo, também concedeu ao Filho ter vida em si mesmo. 27 E deu-lhe autoridade para julgar, porque é o Filho do homem. João 5: 24-27
Introdução
À medida que continuamos na série sobre A Verdade, olhamos para o fato de que o homem não é um animal, não apenas carne e consciência; mas muito mais. O homem é criado por Deus com um propósito e o homem é uma trindade de corpo, alma e espírito.
Na semana passada, examinamos o fato de que o homem continua vivo após a morte de seu corpo.
- A questão agora é o que acontece conosco após a morte e no futuro?
A morte é o grande equalizador.
- A vida na terra continua.
- Morre o grande e o pequeno,
- O famoso e o desconhecido,
- Os ricos e os pobres.
- Se você está perdido ou esquecido.
- Imediatamente na morte, há uma separação de destino entre os nascidos de novo e os não salvos.
- Cada pessoa tem uma alma imortal e ela não fica por aí:
- Sem fantasmas, sem espíritos humanos, sem chance de comunicação.
- Nada que alguém na terra possa fazer para influenciar para onde a alma vai ou o que acontece com ela.
- Está tudo nas mãos de Deus:
- Sem velas, sem presentes e sem sacrifícios.
- Sem pedidos de antepassados.
- Você não pode influenciar os mortos.
- Os mortos não podem influenciar nada na terra.
- Está tudo nas mãos de Deus:
- Nota: Eu não disse que a separação é entre o bom e o mau,
- ou entre o generoso e o mesquinho,
- ou o popular e o odiado.
- A distinção é entre aqueles que confiaram na obra completa de Cristo e aqueles que não confiaram.
- O crente encontra-se imediatamente na presença de Deus, enquanto o incrédulo é separado de Deus em um lugar de tormento.
- Na terra, o tempo passa:
- A história se desenrola, esperando o retorno de Cristo.
Esta mensagem não é sobre a sequência exata de eventos relativos à tribulação, milênio, etc.; mas sobre o resultado,
- Que é o julgamento.
Foi aí que o diabo semeou dúvida e confusão.
- É aqui que encontramos uma grande quantidade de falsos ensinos.
- Esta é uma área de grande importância tanto para os crentes como para os incrédulos.
Julgamento
O julgamento é certo.
- O julgamento é para todos os que já viveram no planeta – inclusive para os cristãos.
- Isso pode soar estranho porque a maioria dos cristãos evangélicos acredita que não serão julgados.
- Ambas as visões estão corretas.
- Existem diferentes julgamentos!
- Todos nós pensamos instintivamente e erroneamente sobre o Julgamento do Grande Trono Branco.
- Para os cristãos não há medo – porque não cairemos sob condenação, mas nossas obras serão avaliadas ou julgadas.
- Nosso pecado está perdoado – o julgamento do pecado já está atrás de nós –
- Jesus foi julgado e punido em nosso lugar.
24 Em verdade vos digo: quem ouve a minha palavra e crê Naquele que me enviou, tem a vida eterna e não será julgado, mas passou da morte para a vida. 25 Em verdade vos digo que vem o tempo, e já é chegado, em que os mortos ouvirão a voz do Filho de Deus e os que a ouvirem viverão. 26 Pois assim como o Pai tem vida em si mesmo, também concedeu ao Filho ter vida em si mesmo. 27 E deu-lhe autoridade para julgar, porque é o Filho do homem. João 5: 24-27.
1Portanto, agora não há condenação para aqueles que estão em Cristo Jesus Romanos 8: 1
A Bíblia fala dos cinco julgamentos futuros separados
Nas Escrituras, parece haver cinco tipos diferentes de julgamento:
- O Tribunal de Cristo. O primeiro deles será o julgamento das obras do crente, chamado de “Tribunal de Cristo“. (Expandiremos sobre isso e o assunto do céu na próxima mensagem.)
- O Julgamento do Israel reunido. Em Daniel 12: 1, esse julgamento é chamado de “O tempo dos problemas de Jacó”. Será a punição dos judeus por sua desobediência a Deus e sua rejeição a Jesus Cristo.
- O Julgamento das Nações Vivas. No final do Período da Tribulação, depois que Israel for julgado, as nações da terra serão julgadas por Cristo e Sua Igreja. Este julgamento não será contra indivíduos, mas contra nações pelo tratamento que dão ao povo judeu. “Pois eis que naqueles dias e naquele tempo, quando eu trouxer novamente o cativeiro de Judá e de Jerusalém, também reunirei todas as nações, e as farei descer ao vale de Josafá, e ali entrarei em juízo com elas pelo meu povo e pela minha herança Israel, que espalharam entre as nações e repartiram a minha terra ”(Joel 3: 1-2).
- O julgamento dos anjos caídos. Este é o julgamento final contra Satanás e outros anjos caídos que serão julgados com ele. Imediatamente após os mil anos da Era do Reino, Satanás e suas hostes encontrarão sua condenação. “E os anjos que não guardaram o seu primeiro estado, mas deixaram a sua própria habitação, Ele os reservou em prisões eternas, nas trevas, para o julgamento do grande dia” (Judas 6). Nesse momento veremos o cumprimento final daquela grande profecia em Gênesis 3:15.
- O Julgamento dos Mortos Incrédulos. Isso é chamado de Julgamento do Grande Trono Branco. Após o lançamento de Satanás no Inferno, os ímpios mortos serão ressuscitados para receber a sentença final de condenação (Apocalipse 20: 12-15).
* Nenhum crente será julgado naquele dia, pois o julgamento final está reservado para todos os que rejeitaram o Senhor Jesus Cristo na terra. ”
O futuro julgamento do crente
O que acontece no tribunal de Cristo, como a recompensa e a perda de recompensas funcionam e o que nos espera no céu? Esses são os tópicos de que trataremos na próxima mensagem.
Deus te abençoe.
Vamos Orar.
The Truth (Part 8): Judgement – Sermon by Steven Loots
24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes in him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life. 25 Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. 26 For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. 27 And he has given him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man. John 5: 24 – 27
Introduction
As we continue in the series on The Truth, we have been looking at the fact that man is not an animal, not just flesh and consciousness; but far more. Man is created by God with a purpose and man is a trinity of body, soul and spirit.
Last week we looked at the fact that man lives on after death of his body.
- The question now is what happens to us after death and in the future?
Death is the great equalizer.
- Life on earth goes on.
- The great and the small die,
- the famous and the unknown,
- the rich and the poor.
- Whether you are missed or forgotten.
- Immediately at death there is a separation of destination between the born-again and the unsaved.
- Every person has an immortal soul and it does not hang around:
- No ghosts, not human spirits, no chance of communication.
- Nothing anyone on earth can do to influence where the soul goes or what becomes of it.
- It is all in God’s hands:
- No candles, no gifts and no sacrifices.
- No requests of ancestors.
- You cannot influence the dead.
- The dead cannot influence anything on earth.
- It is all in God’s hands:
- Note: I did not say the separation is between the good and the bad,
- or between the generous and the stingy,
- or the popular and the hated.
- The distinction is between those who trusted in the complete work of Christ and those who did not.
- The believer finds himself immediately in the presence of God, while the unbeliever is separated from God in a place of torment.
- On earth, time goes on:
- History plays itself out, waiting for the return of Christ.
This message is not about the exact sequence of events concerning tribulation, millennium, etc.; but about the outcome,
- which is Judgement.
This is where the devil sown doubt and confusion.
- This is where we find a huge amount of false teaching.
- This is an area of great importance both for believers and unbelievers.
Judgement
Judgement is certain.
- Judgment is for all who have ever lived on the planet – including for Christians.
- This may sound strange because most evangelical Christians believe that they will not be judged.
- Both views are correct.
- There are different judgements!
- We all instinctively and mistakenly think about the Great White Throne Judgement.
- For Christians there is no fear – because we will not come under condemnation, but our works will be evaluated or judged.
- Our sin is forgiven – judgement of sin is already behind us –
- Jesus was judged and punished in our place.
24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes in him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life. 25 Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. 26 For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. 27 And he has given him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man. John 5: 24 – 27.
And
1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus Romans 8: 1
The Bible speaks of The Five Separate Future Judgments
In Scripture there appear to be five different types of judgement:
- The Judgment Seat of Christ. The first of these will be the judgment of the believer’s works, called “The Judgment Seat of Christ.” (We will expand on this and the subject of heaven in the next message.)
- The Judgment of Regathered Israel. In Daniel 12:1 this judgment is called “The Time of Jacob’s Trouble.” It will be the punishment of the Jews for their disobedience to God and their rejection of Jesus Christ.
- The Judgment of the Living Nations. At the end of the Tribulation Period, after Israel has been judged, the nations of earth will be judged by Christ and His Church. This judgment will not be against individuals but against nations for their treatment of the Jewish people. “For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem, I will also gather all nations, and will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat, and will plead with them there for my people and for my heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, and parted my land” (Joel 3:1-2).
- The Judgment of Fallen Angels. This is the final judgment against Satan and other fallen angels who will be judged with him. Immediately after the one thousand years of the Kingdom Age, Satan and his hosts will meet their doom. “And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, He hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day” (Jude 6). At that time we shall see the final fulfilment of that great prophecy in Genesis 3:15.
- The Judgment of the Unbelieving Dead. This is called the Great White Throne Judgment. After the casting of Satan into Hell, the wicked dead will be raised to receive the final sentence of condemnation (Revelation 20:12-15).
*No believer will be judged at that day as the final judgment is reserved for all who rejected the Lord Jesus Christ on earth.”[1]
The Future Judgment of the Believer
What happens at the Judgement seat of Christ, how does reward and loss of rewards work and what awaits us in heaven? These are the topics we will deal with in the next message.
God bless you.
Let’s pray.
[1] Strauss, L
The Truth Part 8: Judgement – Sermon by Steven Loots
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You can Answer Jesus’ Great Commission
“Fulfilling the Great Commission is a call to all Christians worldwide – to take the Gospel to places where Christ is unknown, as every person on earth needs to hear the Good News,” explains Harvesters’ Regional Director of Southeast Asia.
Southeast Asia consists of 11 countries with a population of 667 million people. There are 694 unreached people groups in Southeast Asia alone. These people do not have access to the Gospel. Thousands of villages are still waiting to hear about Jesus. “They will continue to wait, unless we do something,” said the Regional Director.
He further explains, “The tiny Christian minority in this region is overshadowed by other major religions such as Buddhism and Islam. The strong ties between culture and religion combined with restrictions on direct evangelism makes it very difficult to share the Gospel of Christ. And yet God is working in new ways to spread His Word here – even to the unreached villages.”
Some countries in Southeast Asia have seen a growing number of believers, this growth is however still not enough. There are still millions of people in Southeast Asia who will die before they had the opportunity to hear the Gospel.
Furthermore, persecution is a very real struggle for believers in Southeast Asia. The Regional Director explains how persecution affects believers’ lives, “Many of these brothers and sisters who remain faithful; they continue to face strong opposition from government and locals. They face harassment and different levels of persecution. But despite this, many indigenous Christian leaders who are moved by the Holy Spirit are longing to follow Jesus’ command to go and take the Gospel to remote unreached villages in their countries to make disciples and start new churches.”
There is an enormous need for trained church leaders in Southeast Asia. There are thousands of rural congregations who are languishing without adequate leadership. These churches fall into unbiblical teaching and moral failure.
“Harvesters Ministries’ mission is to see local leaders empowered and equipped with study material in their local language. And to see them mobilised to help transform lives and communities through God’s Word,” said the Regional Director.
These church leaders will evangelise and unite new believers in their new church. They will disciple these new believers and over a period of time a student pastor will be identified and trained. This student pastor will eventually lead the church and plant a new church.
“These new self-sustaining churches fellowship with local leaders to ensure ongoing support for new believers to continue spiritual growth. Planting churches is the most effective way to advance the Gospel and engage the unreached. There is therefore an urgency to plant as many viable churches which will grow in numbers and in spiritual maturity through transformational discipleship for all those reached for the Gospel,” said the Regional Director.
We are all called to get involved – pray, give, go. How would you like to be involved in God’s mission to take the Gospel to places where Christ is unknown and to see villages reached with the Gospel? Large parts of these communities have never had a chance to hear and to see lives transformed.
You can answer Jesus’ Great Commission by giving your best gift today.
Southeast Asia: Save Those in Need
The Golden Triangle is a well-known region in Southeast Asia. The borders of northern Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet here. It is known as one of the most strategic, and also darkest, areas in Asia. This region received its name because of all the corrupt money that is made there through, among other things human and drug trafficking. More than 50% of the world’s opium, which is used to make heroin, is produced here.
Many people living in Myanmar and the highlands of Thailand live in extreme poverty and are forced to cultivate opium in order to survive. Drug addiction is also a very real struggle for families in this region.
“Over the last two years Harvesters Ministries has also used this strategic region to initiate a church planting movement among these three countries,” said Regional Director of Southeast Asia for Harvesters Ministries.
The only way to change someone’s heart is by sharing the Gospel with them. No single person can change another person’s heart, but God can use you as an instrument to change someone’s heart.
Through Evangelism, Discipleship and Church Planting, Harvesters Ministries is influencing communities and transforming them for the better. Church leaders in this region are on fire for Jesus and want to see people getting saved.
Unfortunately, none of these church leaders were spared from the terrible consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have experienced different levels of lockdowns. On top of this dire situation these church leaders have also faced a long drought. Many of these church leaders are dependent on farming to sustain their families.
All public gatherings, which include church gatherings, were banned for several months. Church leaders were unable to host church meetings and generate an income from the contributions that are made by church members. This has left church leaders desperate for help.
Thanks to generous donors it was possible for Harvesters Ministries to start helping families with much needed funds for food. Church leaders were able to supply families with rice, oil and beans. Some families in specifically Myanmar live in very remote areas and it is quite challenging to reach them.
The drought stricken area was also hit with heavy rains recently and this made travelling even more difficult. Church leaders had to travel across rivers and on muddy, dirt roads to reach struggling families.
Your gift today will feed a family for one month in the Golden Triangle region. Partner with Harvesters Ministries today and help us to encourage believers in Southeast Asia. Your gift will enable church leaders to renew their strength and reach more unreached villages not only with food, but also with the Good News of the Gospel.