Introduction:
The theme of God's wrath is one of the most sobering topics in Scripture. In contemporary Christianity, we often prefer to focus on God's love, grace, and forgiveness—which are indeed central to our faith. However, to neglect the reality of God's impending judgment would be a grave disservice, not only to believers but to the lost as well. While Christians, through the atoning sacrifice of Christ, are spared from the wrath to come, this does not diminish its severity for those outside of Christ. It should ignite a greater urgency to bring the message of Salvation to the lost.
In this message, we will explore God's coming wrath, using Scripture to reveal the reality of judgment for the unrepentant sinner while reminding believers that, though they are Saved, their mission is to reach out to those still under the shadow of divine judgment.
The Biblical Reality of God's Wrath:
Scripture makes it clear that God's wrath is a real and inevitable consequence of sin. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible reveals the seriousness with which God views sin and the ultimate judgment that awaits those who reject His offer of Salvation.
Romans 1:18 says, *"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness."
* Paul emphasizes here that God's wrath is not arbitrary but a response to the willful rejection of His truth and righteousness. This wrath is not aimed at those who have placed their faith in Christ but at those who persist in sin and rebellion against God.
The apostle John writes about God's final wrath in Revelation 19:15: "From His mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty."
* This vivid image describes Jesus not only as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world but also as the righteous judge who will bring the final judgment upon the earth.
Illustrations of God's Wrath in Scripture:
Scripture shows examples of God's wrath being poured out as a foretaste of the ultimate judgment. These instances warn all generations that sin will not go unpunished.
1. **The Flood** (Genesis 6-9): God responded to cleanse the earth through the flood when humanity became utterly corrupt. Though Noah and his family were spared, the overwhelming destruction serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the inevitability of divine judgment. Jesus Himself referred to this event in Matthew 24:37-39, warning that His return—and the accompanying judgment—would be like the days of Noah, sudden and inescapable for the unprepared.
2. **Sodom and Gomorrah** (Genesis 19): The destruction of these two cities is another powerful illustration of God's wrath against sin. These cities were known for their wickedness, and despite Abraham's intercession, judgment fell upon them. As Jude 1:7 reminds us, *"Just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities… serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire,"* this event serves as a warning of the eternal consequences of sin.
3. **The Plagues of Egypt** (Exodus 7-12): When Pharaoh hardened his heart against God, refusing to let the Israelites go, God unleashed a series of plagues that culminated in the death of the firstborn. This serves as an example of God's power to judge those who persist in rebellion while protecting His people, as the blood of the Passover lamb shielded the Israelites from death—a foreshadowing of Christ's sacrifice.
No Wrath for the Saints:
It is critical to emphasize that the wrath of God has been fully satisfied in Christ for believers. Romans 5:9 promises, "Since, therefore, we have now been justified by His blood, much more shall we be saved by Him from the wrath of God."
* The wrath we deserved was poured out on Christ at the cross, and we now stand justified, free from the fear of condemnation.
However, this freedom from wrath is not a cause for complacency. On the contrary, it should deeply concern us for those still under judgment. As Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:11, *"Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others."
* Understanding the severity of God's wrath should compel us to reach the lost with the message of grace.
The Urgency of the Harvest:
Jesus made it clear that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few (Matthew 9:37). The knowledge that the wrath of God is coming upon those who remain outside of Christ should ignite a passion in every believer to go into the fields and bring in the harvest. The final opportunity for Salvation will one day pass, and those who have rejected Christ will face His judgment.
Illustrating this urgency, the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25 shows that while the wise were prepared for the bridegroom, the foolish were left outside when the door was shut. This parable serves as a reminder that there is a closing window of opportunity for people to respond to the gospel.
In addition, Jude 1:22-23 exhorts us to *"be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire."
* This graphic language underscores the life-or-death nature of our mission. The stakes could not be higher: eternal life or eternal separation from God.
Conclusion:
The coming wrath of God is a reality that should not be ignored. While believers are saved from this wrath through the blood of Christ, this truth should awaken a deep sense of responsibility within us for those who remain under judgment. The fields are ripe for harvest, but the time is short. As ambassadors of Christ, we are called to share the gospel urgently, snatching souls from the fire, knowing that the day of the Lord's wrath is drawing near.
Let this message inspire us to live out our calling, not only with the joy of our own Salvation but with a burning desire to see others come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ before it is too late.
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