What does "judgment to come" in Acts 24:25 teach about accountability? Setting the Scene: Paul Before Felix Acts 24:25 records, “But as Paul expounded on righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix became afraid and said, ‘You may leave for now; when I find the opportunity I will summon you.’” Paul’s message came in three linked themes—righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. The third theme pressed the issue of accountability so strongly that the Roman governor trembled. Key Truths Wrapped Up in “Judgment to Come” • Judgment is future yet certain. (Hebrews 9:27) • Judgment is universal—no one is exempt. (2 Corinthians 5:10) • Judgment is personal; each individual gives an account. (Romans 14:12) • Judgment is thorough; even secrets are exposed. (Romans 2:16; Ecclesiastes 12:14) • Judgment is righteous; God’s verdicts perfectly match His holy standards. (Psalm 98:9) How Judgment Establishes Unavoidable Accountability 1. Certainty of Standing Before Christ • “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:10) • Accountability is not theoretical; it is a fixed appointment set by God. 2. Personal Responsibility • “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) • No one can shift blame; personal choices and motives are evaluated. 3. Comprehensive Scope • “On the day when God will judge men’s secrets through Christ Jesus.” (Romans 2:16) • Actions, words, and even hidden intentions come under divine review. 4. Two Distinct Outcomes • Believers—evaluation for rewards, not condemnation. (1 Corinthians 3:14-15) • Unbelievers—final condemnation at the Great White Throne. (Revelation 20:12-15) Why Felix Trembled: The Immediate Impact of Accountability • He realized that political power could not shield him from divine scrutiny. • His lifestyle of corruption clashed with God’s standard of righteousness. • The urgency of repentance pressed upon him, yet he postponed decision—revealing how the knowledge of coming judgment tests the heart. Practical Ways Accountability Shapes Daily Living • Encourages ongoing repentance and confession. (1 John 1:9) • Motivates integrity in speech and conduct. (Matthew 12:36) • Strengthens perseverance in trials, knowing rewards await. (James 1:12) • Fuels compassion for the lost, urging evangelism before it is too late. (2 Peter 3:9) The Gospel Connection • Christ bore the judgment our sins deserved. (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24) • Trusting Him secures justification now and confidence for the future judgment. (Romans 5:9) • Even so, believers aim to “please Him” because accountability remains for faithfulness. (2 Corinthians 5:9-10) Living in Light of the Coming Judgment • Maintain a soft heart—quick to obey and quick to repent. • Cultivate self-control through the Spirit’s power, echoing Paul’s emphasis. (Galatians 5:22-23) • Invest in eternal priorities—works done for Christ will follow into eternity. (Revelation 14:13) • Rest in God’s justice when wronged, knowing He will settle every account. (Romans 12:19) Judgment to come is God’s built-in reminder that life is never aimless; every person stands accountable before a holy, righteous Judge whose verdicts are true and whose grace in Christ provides the only safe refuge. |
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