“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others.”
2 Corinthians 5:10-11
WOW! One day, you and me will stand before God. Even being followers of Jesus! Not for condemnation, but for accountability. You’ll give an account of how you lived, what you did with your time, your gifts, your opportunities. That’s not a threat—it’s a holy reality. And the apostle Paul didn’t take it lightly.
He writes:
“Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others.” (v.11)
“God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.” (v.18)
“We are Christ’s ambassadors… We speak for Christ when we plead, ‘Come back to God!’” (v.20)
Ha ha! This is the fire that burned in Paul’s heart:
He knew Christ’s love—and he feared Christ’s judgement. Both drove him to speak. Both stirred him to act. And they should stir you too.
Here’s the truth: You don’t have to choose between love and fear. You can be fuelled by both—and you should be.
Love makes you want to speak about Jesus. Fear reminds you that you must. And it is because God will judge!
We talk about what we love. If Jesus has truly changed your life, how could you stay silent? If His love fills your heart, it will overflow into your words. And if His holiness grips your soul, you’ll sense the urgency to speak.
Paul didn’t wait for perfect moments. He pleaded with people: “Come back to God!” That’s your calling too. You are His ambassador. His voice. His messenger.
So rise up.
Let the love of Christ compel you.
Let the fear of the Lord ignite you.
Let His mission become your passion.
You will stand before Christ.
Live—and speak—as one who knows it.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk