The End Of The Wicked

THE END OF THE WICKED

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Romans 6:23

Supporting Texts: Psalm 37:1-2, Proverbs 14:12, Ecclesiastes 8:12-13, Revelation 20:12-15, Matthew 25:41

INTRODUCTION

The Bible makes it clear that there are two distinct destinies for humanity: the path of righteousness, which leads to eternal life, and the path of wickedness, which leads to destruction. Romans 6:23 summarises this reality: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” The wicked may seem to prosper temporarily, but their end is always disastrous if they do not repent.

Many people live as though there are no consequences for sin, deceived by the temporary pleasures of this world. However, the Word of God warns that though a sinner may flourish for a time, judgment is inevitable (Ecclesiastes 8:12-13). The fate of the wicked is one of sorrow, loss, and eternal separation from God.

This message will highlight the characteristics of the wicked, the consequences of their actions, biblical examples of their downfall, and how to escape the path of destruction through repentance and salvation in Christ.

1. WHO ARE THE WICKED?

The Bible defines the wicked not just as those who commit outward sins but also those who reject God and live contrary to His will.

a) Those Who Reject God’s Authority (Psalm 14:1)

The wicked deny God’s existence or refuse to submit to His authority, choosing their own ways over His commandments.

b) Those Who Live in Continuous Sin (Isaiah 59:2)

Persistent sin separates people from God, making them enemies of righteousness.

c) Those Who Oppress Others (Proverbs 22:16)

The wicked exploit the weak and use their power unjustly for selfish gain.

d) Those Who Love Evil and Hate Righteousness (John 3:19-20)

The wicked take pleasure in wrongdoing and despise the truth of God’s Word.

e) Biblical Example: Pharaoh, who refused to acknowledge God’s power and enslaved Israel, ultimately met destruction in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:26-28).

2. THE TEMPORARY PROSPERITY OF THE WICKED

Many times, the wicked seem to prosper while the righteous suffer, but their success is short-lived.

a) The Wicked May Flourish for a Season (Psalm 37:1-2)

Though they appear to be thriving, they will soon wither like grass.

b) Their Wealth and Power Are Meaningless Without God (Proverbs 11:4)

Riches and influence cannot save a person from divine judgment.

c) They Are Often Deceived by Their Own Success (Obadiah 1:3-4)

Pride blinds them, making them believe they are untouchable.

d) God Is Patient, but Judgment Will Surely Come (2 Peter 3:9-10)

God gives time for repentance, but when grace expires, destruction follows.

e) Biblical Example: King Nebuchadnezzar thought he was invincible, but God humbled him until he acknowledged divine authority (Daniel 4:28-37).

3. THE CERTAIN DESTRUCTION OF THE WICKED

No matter how powerful or successful they may seem, the wicked will eventually face judgment.

a) Their Own Sins Will Trap Them (Proverbs 5:22)

The wicked are ensnared by the consequences of their own sinful choices.

b) God Will Eventually Judge Them (Ecclesiastes 12:14)

Every hidden deed, whether good or evil, will be brought into judgment.

c) Sudden and Unexpected Calamity Awaits Them (Proverbs 29:1)

Those who repeatedly reject correction will be destroyed without remedy.

d) Their Eternal Fate Is the Lake of Fire (Revelation 20:12-15)

The final destiny of the wicked is eternal separation from God in hell.

e) Biblical Example: Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus, met a tragic end when he hung himself and was eternally lost (Matthew 27:3-5).

4. THE ULTIMATE END OF THE WICKED – ETERNAL SEPARATION FROM GOD

While some wicked people may experience consequences in this life, their worst fate is in eternity.

a) They Will Stand Before God’s Judgment Throne (Hebrews 9:27)

Everyone must give an account of their lives before God.

b) Hell Was Not Created for Man but for the Devil (Matthew 25:41)

Yet, those who follow Satan’s ways will share in his punishment.

c) There Is No Second Chance After Death (Luke 16:19-31)

The rich man in hell realised too late that repentance must happen in this life.

d) They Will Be Forever Separated from God (2 Thessalonians 1:9)

Eternal destruction means total loss of God’s presence and all hope.

e) Biblical Example: The people of Noah’s time ignored warnings until the flood came and destroyed them all (Genesis 7:21-23).

5. HOW TO ESCAPE THE FATE OF THE WICKED

No one is doomed to destruction if they turn to God while grace is still available.

a) Repent and Turn to Jesus (Acts 3:19)

Sincere repentance brings salvation and restores fellowship with God.

b) Live a Life of Righteousness (Titus 2:11-12)

Grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and live in holiness.

c) Avoid the Path of Sinners (Psalm 1:1-2)

Separate yourself from ungodly influences that lead to destruction.