Next weekend is our weekend seminar on Judgment where in at least one session we will talk about Christ returning and future judgments. You are welcome to attend (sign up on the page below).
https://graceambassadors.com/seminar26
When Jesus came the first time, he came not to condemn the world, but to bear the sins of the world. When he comes back in the future, it will be to sit on thrones in judgment.
Judgment means he will examine works, separate what does not belong, issue the sentence, and reward what is worthy.
At the judgment seat of Christ, he examines the sort of work and service performed by members of His Body (1 Cor 3:13-14). He will separate and burn up the bad sort and reward the good sort. What remains will be a cause of rejoicing.
At the judgment of all nations at his kingdom, he examines the work done toward the remnant of Israel (Gen 12:3). He separates the sheep from the goats, the righteous from the unrighteous, and reward those who blessed remnant Israel with entrance into his kingdom (Matt 25:31-36).
At the final judgment mentioned in scripture, Christ sits on a “great white throne” (Rev 20:11-15). He examines the work of all the dead, and separates death, hell, and sin from the new heaven and earth. The saved receive a new Jerusalem and eternal inheritance (Rev 21:1-7).
Future judgment is not merely about wrath, punishment, flames, and vengeance. That is only one part of the judgment: the reward for wickedness, evil, and sin.
Judgment also rewards righteousness, faithfulness, purity, and brings about peace and the kingdom of God in heaven and on earth. Judgment also means the final deliverance from sin and death of all who trust the Lord Christ Jesus.
If we are looking in hope for the return of Jesus Christ, we are looking for his return to judge. If we learn to judge rightly now, it will strengthen our hope in his return.
For your hope of glory,
Justin “future hope” Johnson