God's Righteous Judgment (Romans 2:2-11)

The Second Sunday of End Time, Judgment Day, November 8, 2020

Readings for this week:

First Lesson, Daniel 7:9-10:  Daniel sees a vision of the Last Judgment that is filled with fire and thrones and books.  We can rejoice and look forward to the end of this age when we will reign with Christ in glory.

Second Lesson and Sermon Text, Romans 2:2-11:  Being mindful of the judgment means never falling into a self-righteous condemnation of the world around us. God will give according to what each person has done---but the point here is the motive, not the actions themselves.

VERSE OF THE DAY, Matthew 24:42:  Alleluia.  So be alert, because you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.  Alleluia.

GOSPEL: Matthew 25:31-46: The Son of Man came once as a humble baby, but will return as a glorious king with angel armies at his side.  He will sit on his throne, and all the nations will be brought before him to be judged.  Lord, keep us mindful of your coming judgment that we might be found in faith, judged by your grace, and gifted with eternal life!

Sermon, Romans 2:2-11, God’s Righteous Judgement:

As Lutherans who rightly emphasize our salvation through faith alone, given to us by God’s grace alone, it might alarm you to see how much emphasis is about good works in the readings for today.

At first glance, this talk of works seems to contradict what we just said about faith being the basis of God’s righteous judgment of people, but upon closer examination, we see that faith and works are not contradictory teachings:  they complete the picture of what a Christian’s life should look like when it comes time for Last Judgment.

Let us remember what it is that God is basting his righteous judgment on:  faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior from sin.  Faith is trust, trust in who Jesus is, what he has done for us on the cross, and what he promises to those who believe in him.

With a heart that is set on God’s Word, let us then direct our thoughts, words, and actions so that they are a proper result and reflection of our faith in Christ.  Amen

Pastor Tim Patoka