That Day

 “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” Acts 17:30—31

This day is permanently established. It will not be rescheduled or postponed due to Covid.  

Our confidence is based on the resurrection, which shows that Jesus is the one to whom judgment has been appointed. 

Christians should think about the resurrection and judgment as motivation to holiness and godliness, our devotion to Christ. (2 Peter 3:10-12) Jesus himself told us to be alert and faithful. (Matthew 24:42-51) 

Christians should also look forward to this time with joy and peace, “for God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us”. (1Thessalonians 5:1-8) We can embrace Article 37 of the Belgic Confession, which says:

“The consideration of this judgment, is justly terrible and dreadful to the wicked, but most desirable to the righteous and elect: because then their full deliverance shall be perfected and there they shall receive the fruits of their labor and trouble which they have borne.”