Escaping The Wrath To Come

ESCAPING THE WRATH TO COME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Revelation 20:11-15

Supporting Texts: 2 Peter 3:10-13, Luke 21:34-36

INTRODUCTION:

The reality of God's judgment is a truth that cannot be ignored. The Bible speaks clearly about a day of reckoning when every person will stand before God to give an account of their lives. Revelation 20:11-15 describes the Great White Throne Judgment, where the wicked will be sentenced to eternal punishment. The wrath of God is not a myth but a terrifying reality for those who reject His salvation.

Many live as though they will not be held accountable for their actions. Some dismiss the idea of judgment, believing that God is too merciful to punish sin. However, Scripture teaches that while God is loving, He is also just. He has provided a way of escape through Jesus Christ, but those who reject Him will face the full measure of divine wrath.

Jesus Himself warned about the dangers of being unprepared. In Luke 21:34-36, He urged His followers to be watchful and prayerful so they may escape the coming judgment. Today, we must ensure that our names are written in the Book of Life and that we live in readiness for Christ’s return.

1. THE CERTAINTY OF GOD'S JUDGMENT

God's judgment is inevitable and will come upon all humanity.

a) Judgment has been appointed for all – Every person will stand before God to be judged (Hebrews 9:27).

b) God’s wrath is reserved for the ungodly – Those who reject Christ will face eternal condemnation (Romans 2:5-6).

c) The earth and heavens will pass away – Everything we see will be dissolved in the final judgment (2 Peter 3:10-12).

d) The righteous will be vindicated – God will separate the just from the unjust (Matthew 25:31-34).

e) Biblical Example: Noah preached about the coming flood, but many ignored him until it was too late. Judgment came suddenly, and only those in the ark were saved (Genesis 7:21-23).

2. THE REALITY OF HELL AND ETERNAL PUNISHMENT

Hell is a place of everlasting torment for the unrepentant.

a) Hell was not originally created for man – It was prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41).

b) Hell is a place of unquenchable fire – The punishment is eternal and irreversible (Mark 9:43-48).

c) The wicked will experience separation from God – Hell is a place of total darkness and despair (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9).

d) There is no second chance after death – Those who die in sin will not have another opportunity to repent (Luke 16:22-26).

e) Biblical Example: The rich man in Luke 16:19-31 was tormented in hell and could not cross over to paradise. His regret came too late.

3. GOD'S PROVISION FOR SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST

God, in His mercy, has provided a way of escape through Jesus.

a) Jesus died to save us from wrath – His sacrifice on the cross delivers us from eternal punishment (Romans 5:8-9).

b) Salvation is available to all who believe – Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Romans 10:13).

c) The grace of God is sufficient – No matter how sinful a person is, God’s grace can redeem them (Ephesians 2:8-9).

d) Those who accept Christ will not face condemnation – Believers have passed from death to life (John 5:24).

e) Biblical Example: The thief on the cross repented and received salvation at the last moment (Luke 23:39-43).

4. THE IMPORTANCE OF REPENTANCE AND FAITH

To escape God’s wrath, we must turn to Him in repentance.

a) True repentance is turning away from sin – It is not just remorse but a change of heart (Acts 3:19).

b) Faith in Christ is the only way to be saved – There is no salvation outside of Jesus (John 14:6).

c) Repentance must be accompanied by a transformed life – We must live in obedience to God’s Word (2 Corinthians 5:17).

d) The time for repentance is now – Delaying repentance is dangerous because death is unpredictable (Isaiah 55:6-7).

e) Biblical Example: Nineveh repented at Jonah’s preaching, and God spared them from destruction (Jonah 3:5-10).

5. THE REWARD OF THOSE WHO ENDURE TILL THE END

Those who remain faithful will receive eternal life.

a) Eternal life is the reward of the righteous – Heaven is prepared for those who love God (John 14:2-3).

b) The righteous will reign with Christ – Believers will share in His glory (2 Timothy 2:12).

c) God will wipe away all tears – There will be no sorrow or pain in eternity (Revelation 21:4).

d) The joy of the Lord will be our portion – Heaven is a place of everlasting joy (Psalm 16:11).

e) Biblical Example: Paul endured trials for the sake of Christ and looked forward to his crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:7-8).