LESSON #7

GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT

When will God finally settle the accounts of the wicked?  Sometimes we cry "how long".  Five very simple verses in Revelation 20:11-15 gives us final, eternal, complete information.

First, let's clear up some things from John 5:24-29.  The subject is life, condemnation, action and judgment.  Fact – Jesus is the judge.  Fact – All who have ever lived will live again to be judged.  Fact – That there are two resurrections.  One to live, one to damnation.

The first resurrection of Revelation 20:5 is the resurrection of life.  Death has no power over them (verse 6).  The rest (those not in the book of life – Revelation 20:15) are raised 1,000 years later for judgment.  This judgment follows the Millenium and is for the lost only.

Note with me three distinct, unique facts about this courtroom scene.

1.	There is a judge and no jury.  The conquering Christ has subdued sin at the cross, death by His resurrection, armies of the world at Armageddon, and now Satan is bound and judged (Revelation 20:10).  He alone makes the eternal decision.  That is why we preach Him as "the decision" to make for eternal life.
2.	There is prosecution and no defense.  Man is guilty.  His history has shown it (Romans chapters 1-3).  His rejection of Christ has confirmed it.  Even after 1,000 years of Christ's reign he still is rebellious.  Guilty – No one can raise their voice in protest – There is no defense.
3.	Sentence and no appeal.  This is the highest court.  The Supreme Court of all ages is convened.  Man is physically and spiritually resurrected (vs. 13)  to be judged.  Notice in verse 13 "according to their works".  A just God will deal fairly.  Hell will be worse for some than for others.  Those who have heard the most, and reject the most will be liable for all they knew and did.

My heart's desire is that no person who reads this lesson will stand in judgment at that day.  Jesus waits now  to abundantly pardon those who come to him  Isaiah 55:7.