Christ Who Has Become Our Judge

Those who believe in Jesus already have eternal life and do not come under judgment. People suppose that they will stand before the judgment seat only after death, yet salvation and judgment are already divided here in this world, according to whether a person hears the words of Jesus and believes.

The idea that salvation and reward must be earned by piling up outward worship and good deeds is a mistaken faith. Jesus has already accomplished everything; the table is fully spread. Whether a person treasures that pearl and takes it up, or tramples it underfoot, is simply each one’s own choice.

Because judgment rests not with God the Father but with Jesus Christ, those who believe need fear neither death nor Satan. Salvation asks nothing more than obedience to his word, as one looks to the cross and to the bronze serpent. Yet once saved, believers must go on in sanctification, growing into people who lean on God ever more.