Anticipating the coming kingdom transforms how we live today. Pastor Lutzer paints a picture of heaven’s wedding so we can center on what it’s all about. As the redeemed, we await Christ’s return. Are we being faithful to our True Lover?
Who is invited to heaven’s wedding? All the saints will gather to give praise to the One deserving all the praise. In a touching reflection, Pastor Lutzer wonders at Jesus’ presence at the marriage supper of the Lamb. We’ll be surprised where we’ll find the Groom at His own marriage celebration.
Heaven staggers the imagination, a feast of eternal joy which all points to Jesus’ glory. Having focused on believers at the rapture and the judgment seat of Christ, Pastor Lutzer now describes the context for a third event: the marriage supper of the Lamb. Are we dressed and ready to make our home with the True Bridegroom?
At Christ’s eternal reign, what does it mean for believers to reign with Him? Christ has different responsibilities for those who have endured to the end. Pastor Lutzer warns against missed opportunities to be faithful today. Are we going for the gold?
If Christians aren’t noticed or saved by our good deeds, why should we do them? When the King returns, everyone will receive what’s due for their deeds done in the body. Pastor Lutzer focuses on what Jesus looks for at the judgment seat. Even deeds done in obscurity can be an investment for eternity.
Forgiven Christians will be judged for their deeds—whether good or evil. As we stand before Jesus’ Bema seat, what will last? Pastor Lutzer shows five types of deeds that survive, depicted as “gold, silver, and precious stones.” Our eternal rewards are all meant for Jesus.
Christians are forgiven people. But are believers going to see their sins at the judgment seat of Christ? Because Jesus will be thorough, Pastor Lutzer emphasizes the magnitude of grace as well as the fear of the Lord. With eternity in mind, we can be ready for our first one-on-one with Jesus.
Comparing our life events with someone else’s often keeps us from facing our own reality. At the judgment seat, will Jesus grade our lives on a curve? Pastor Lutzer articulates key characteristics of Jesus’ judgment and reward for each believer. Nothing else matters except what Jesus thinks.
All believers will be held accountable for our works, even if it leads to tears of regret. We are saved by grace, not by good works, but we will stand before the judgement seat of Christ. Pastor Lutzer poses the question: “Is it selfish to live for rewards in heaven?” Imagine stepping into heaven knowing you’ve faithfully laid up treasures where it matters.
Most apocalyptic accounts are dreadful. Yet for believers, Jesus’ appearing at any moment is our “blessed hope.” Pastor Lutzer reflects on the wonders of that day, both physically and metaphysically. It’s impossible to fully imagine our transformation. But in the twinkling of the eye, it will be glorious!