Bible Reading: Psalm 4; 1 Pet. 4:11-19.
“For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” – 1 Peter 4:17 (KJV).
Some people say that once saved, forever saved! That it does not matter what you do after you have accepted Jesus as your Saviour, you remain saved. This is a lie from the pit of hell. Anyone who is saved and commits sin is as guilty as an unbeliever unless he repents of his sin and he is forgiven.
Salvation is two fold: Instant salvation and continuous salvation. Instant salvation is when you newly give your life to Christ and all your sins are forgiven. At that instant, you are saved, and if rapture takes place at that moment, you will most likely go to heaven. However since rapture has not taken place, you continue to live your life. This may lead you to sin if you do not walk in the understanding of your new status.
Continuous salvation is living in total obedience to the word of God. This is why the bible says in Philippians 2:12 (KJV): “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Everyone is expected to work out his salvation by obedience to the word of God. Judas Iscariot was one of the twelve disciples of Christ but lost his salvation as a result of greed. 1 John 2:4 (KJV) says: “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” And the bible says clearly in Revelation 21:8 (KJV): “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” So everyone who accepts Jesus as his Saviour but fails to keep his commandments will end up in hell. You will not end up in hell fire in Jesus name.
This is why God says that judgement will start from the house of God. All those who claim to be believers but do not live a life of holiness will gnash their teeth on the last day. May you finish well in Jesus name. 1 Peter 4:17 (KJV) states: “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begins at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” And Matt 25:41-46 shows that Jesus Christ will reject those believers that do not cater for the poor and needy in our society though they would claim to be his followers! Jesus is coming for a church (believers) that have no spot, wrinkle or blemish. So be prepared.
Prayer: Father give me the grace to finish this race strong and well in Jesus name.
Bro Biodun Oyapero