Topical Bible: Self-Delusion: Exhibited in Thinking that Christ Shall not Come to Judge

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Self-delusion, in the context of biblical teaching, refers to the erroneous belief or mindset that contradicts the truths revealed in Scripture. One significant form of self-delusion is the belief that Christ will not return to judge the living and the dead. This notion is contrary to the clear teachings of the Bible, which affirm the certainty of Christ's second coming and His role as the righteous judge.

Biblical Warnings Against Self-Delusion

The Bible provides numerous warnings against self-deception, particularly concerning the return of Christ. 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 mockery that will arise in the last days, as people doubt the promise of Christ's return.

The Certainty of Christ's Return

Scripture affirms the certainty of Christ's return and His role as judge. In Acts 1:11 , as Jesus ascends into heaven, two angels declare to the disciples, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven." This promise assures believers of the physical and visible return of Christ.

Furthermore, Jesus Himself speaks of His return in Matthew 24:30-31 : "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And He will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other."

Christ as the Righteous Judge

The role of Christ as judge is a central theme in the New Testament. In John 5:22-23 , Jesus states, "Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father." This passage underscores the authority given to Christ to execute judgment.

The apostle Paul also emphasizes this truth in 2 Timothy 4:1 : "I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His kingdom." Here, Paul reminds Timothy of the impending judgment that Christ will carry out upon His return.

Consequences of Self-Delusion

The self-delusion of denying Christ's return and judgment has significant spiritual consequences. It leads individuals to live without accountability, ignoring the moral and ethical standards set forth by God. In Matthew 24:48-51 , Jesus warns of the fate of the wicked servant who doubts his master's return: "But suppose that servant is wicked and says in his heart, 'My master will be away a long time.' And he begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. The master of that servant will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not anticipate. Then he will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

Call to Vigilance and Preparedness

Believers are called to remain vigilant and prepared for Christ's return. In 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6 , Paul exhorts the church: "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."

In conclusion, the belief that Christ will not return to judge is a form of self-delusion that contradicts the clear teachings of Scripture. The Bible affirms the certainty of Christ's return and His role as the righteous judge, calling believers to live in readiness and anticipation of that day.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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