WE PERSUADE MEN

WE PERSUADE MEN!

2 Cor 5:10-11

10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men;

           All of my sermons can be categorized under two broad headings: “get saved and do right.” The first is a warning to the lost. No other message is as important as this one. The sinner is urgently warned to “get saved.” He stands condemned already (See John 3:18). He needs to do nothing more to insure his doom but to wait for the final outcome of inaction.

           Most of my sermons are to those who are already “saved.” They have understood their sin, agreed with God regarding it, have asked God’s forgiveness and mercy, and turned away from it. Yet Paul warned that believers will stand before the Bema seat to have their deeds revealed and rewarded. The Bema was the platform in most Greek towns where the marathon runners were rewarded and honored.

The word terror does not mean fright, dread, or horror but honor and deep reverential respect. After all, we are going to see our Saviour - and He loves us. But Paul did not minimize the awesomeness of the occasion. “The Greek word for "appear" in v. 10 means more than "stand" or "show up." It carries the idea of being revealed; "for we shall all be shown as we are" is the meaning. There will be no pretending at that judgment; our character and works will be revealed as they are, and the suitable rewards will be given.” Warren Wiersbe

We are ambassadors for Christ, pleading with the unsaved to receive his offer and be reconciled by his grace!

Dear Lord, persuade us today that you are real and they you are merciful. Help us to know also that you are the great judge. Make us effective as we persuade men. AMEN