THE JUDGMENT DAY I John 4:17 I. Introduction. A. When one is confident in one's steps, there is a boldness in one's actions and one's thoughts. B. If one truly trusts and obeys God's commands, there is this confidence and boldness. C. John stated: I John 4:17. 1. Boldness(Vine) includes confidence, cheerful courage. 2. When "love is perfect(complete) in us." 3. John speaks of the "day of judgment."(Need boldness then.) D. Judgment includes reward or punishment, the passing of sentence(decision), and the carrying out of the sentence(separation). E. Men dread the courts of the land--when guilty--as one should dread the judgment of God if guilty. II. Body. The Judgment Day... A. Will not be to determine one's guilt of innocence(it is not a jury trial by one's peers; nor is it a human court). 1. One's fate is decided in this life: too late to change at judgment: Hebrews 9:27. 2. For some, it will be a great day: Matthew 25:34. 3. For the rest, it will be the most horrible experience: Jude 6. 4. Live for Christ now: be eternally with Him then. 5. Each one decides fate in this life: you, me and all others have a choice. B. Is for all of mankind: II Corinthians 5:10. 1. There are many exceptions in this life; ways to escape--but not this event! Romans 2:2-3 2. One cannot buy out, hide out or slip out--it will occur. 3. The gospel is for all: but the majority refuse its blessing. 4. The color of a man's skin, his financial condition, his prestige, his political aptitude, his persuasiveness, his education, his influence, etc. will not keep one from this event(there will be no manipulators). 5. The gospel is for all: the judgment is for all. C. Is a time for accounting: Romans 14:10-11. 1. Each person will have decided one's own fate. 2. Felix' reaction to this knowledge: Acts 24:25. a. As many of today: do not want to hear it. b. The "convenient season" never comes for the majority. 3. The degree of accountability: Matthew 12:36. 4. Ever be careful how we judge others: Matthew 7:2. 5. Those who know but do not practice will be in serious trouble: Matthew 10:15; 11:22(review). 6. It begins with Christians: I Peter 4:17. a. Nothing will be hidden. b. The judge is not human! D. Will be a time of reward for the faithful disciple: Matthew 25:34. 1. These did not find themselves "worthy" of this reward: v. 35-40. 2. The cause of Christ was first in their lives. 3. The supplying of needs to others was a prime objective of their lives. 4. They had not made distinctions--but assisted all those in need as they could. 5. Like this one? (Mark 12:41-44) 6. Hence: Revelation 21:3-4, 7. E. For the rest, it will be a day of terror: Matthew 25:41. 1. These did not put kingdom first. a. Most ignored the requirements to enter. b. Note: Mark 16:16b. 2. These were selfish and stingy toward others: v. 42- 45. 3. These lived their lives by their own wills and own standards--they left out God--now the price must be paid. 4. Hence: Revelation 21:8. III. Conclusion. A. The fate(s) of all: Matthew 25:46. B. You will stand in judgment; you will be acceptable or unacceptable; it is up to you.-jy