Self-delusion, in the context of Christian theology, refers to the erroneous belief that one is exempt from divine judgment or that Christ will not return to judge the living and the dead. This form of self-deception is particularly dangerous as it leads individuals away from repentance and the pursuit of holiness, fostering a false sense of security.

Biblical Warnings Against Self-Delusion

The Bible provides numerous warnings against self-delusion, particularly concerning the return of Christ and the final judgment. In 2 Peter 3:3-4 , the apostle Peter cautions believers: "Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. 'Where is the promise of His coming?' they will ask. 'Ever since our fathers fell asleep, everything continues as it has from the beginning of creation.'"

This passage highlights the skepticism and complacency that can arise when individuals doubt the certainty of Christ's return. Such attitudes are a form of self-delusion, as they ignore the clear teachings of Scripture regarding the end times.

The Certainty of Christ's Return

The New Testament affirms the certainty of Christ's return and the subsequent judgment. In Matthew 24:42-44 , Jesus Himself warns: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come. But understand this: If the homeowner had known in which watch of the night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. For this reason, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect."

This passage underscores the importance of vigilance and readiness, countering any notion that Christ's return is uncertain or irrelevant. The metaphor of a thief in the night emphasizes the suddenness and unpredictability of His coming, urging believers to live in a state of constant preparedness.

The Consequences of Self-Delusion

The consequences of self-delusion regarding Christ's return are severe. In Matthew 25:31-33 , Jesus describes the final judgment: "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on His right and the goats on His left."

This imagery of separation illustrates the reality of divine judgment and the eternal destinies that await humanity. Those who delude themselves into thinking that Christ will not come to judge are at risk of being counted among the "goats," those who are condemned due to their lack of faith and obedience.

Exhortation to Avoid Self-Delusion

The apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently exhorts believers to remain steadfast and avoid self-deception. In 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6 , he writes: "For you are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, 'Peace and security,' destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you, brothers, are not in the darkness so that this day should overtake you like a thief. For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day; we do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober."

Paul's exhortation serves as a reminder to live in the light of Christ's imminent return, rejecting complacency and self-delusion. By remaining spiritually vigilant and sober-minded, believers can avoid the pitfalls of thinking that Christ will not come to judge.

Conclusion

The Bible consistently warns against the self-delusion of believing that Christ will not return to judge the world. Through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, believers are called to live in anticipation of His coming, maintaining a posture of readiness and faithfulness. The certainty of Christ's return and the reality of divine judgment serve as powerful motivators for holy living and spiritual vigilance.2 Peter 3:4
And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.
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