T he “day” in verse 16 is inextricably linked to “the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God” in verse 5. The Bible is clear that we face an impending judgment. The writer of Hebrews states that “it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” [Hebrews 9:27]. This is the inescapable reality. Our deeds will come to light. The Lord “will bring to light the hidden things of darkness” [1 Corinthians 4:5]. We will give an account of every word that comes forth from our lips [see Matthew 12:36]. Our secret motivations will be made known as God will make manifest the counsels of our hearts. The Judge on that day will be our Lord Jesus Christ [2 Timothy 4:1]. Paul reminds us “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad” [2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 14:10; Revelation 2:23]. Paul reminds us the Lord Jesus Christ “will judge the world in righteousness” [Acts 17:31]. We cannot plead ignorance. We cannot defend ourselves on the grounds that sin is part of human nature, and everybody is doing it. Our day in heaven’s court is certain, and if we were to appear in the rags of our own righteousness, the outcome will be dreadful. The only hope for sinners to settle the matter is not to plead our case in heaven’s court but to bow at Calvary’s cross, for there our sins were paid in full, and we are clothed in the righteousness of the Judge.
LESSON
In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.
Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to the cross I cling; Naked, come to thee for dress; helpless, look to thee for grace; foul, I to the fountain fly; wash me, Savior, or I die. – Augustus Toplady
THOUGHT
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