The Justice of Jesus

Today's reading comes from oneyearbibleonline.com
zechariah 12:1-13:9; revelation 19:1-21; psalm 147:1-20; proverbs 31:1-7

Old Testament:
Zechariah 12:1-13:9

Zechariah speaks of future deliverance for Jerusalem in this section.  Again we see of a promise from the Lord to protect Jerusalem and Judah, with dire consequences to those nations who oppose her (12:2-3, 12:8-9).  The Lord preserves the people of Jerusalem to demonstrate His goodness and strength.  Verse 12:5 says, "Then the clans of Judah will say in their hearts, 'The people of Jerusalem are strong, because the Lord Almighty is their God."  God gives strength in order that His strength be put on display.  It's the same with all of His attributes.  He offers favor and exaltation to people in order that their praise would point back to Him.  Narcissistic?  Hardly!  It's a display of compassion and mercy that other people would take notice and be blessed by Him.  The sad reality though is that most do not take notice.  They continue their lives in rebellion.  By "taking notice," I mean an awareness of what God has done in our lives and turning from sin.

In chapter 13, Zechariah describes this repentance that is required in order that they be cleansed from sin and impurity (13:1).  Much of their sin involved idols (13:2).  Isn't it interesting how our culture is consumed with idolatry today?  It's likely not wood statues or carvings that we worship today.  Instead, our hearts gravitate toward things like materialism, status, even security, to name a few.  In order to be delivered like Jerusalem, we too must repent.


The Justice of Jesus
(New Testament: Revelation 19:1-21)

In this section we learn about the second coming of Christ.  Verses 11-21 paint an impressive picture to say the least!  The Lord Jesus will return on a white horse (representing purity).  Christ himself is named Faithful and True, for it will be a time of judgment (19:11).  Lest we think for a nanosecond that He will return as a tender-hearted weakling, the next verses lay that notion to rest.  "His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns" (19:12). "Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down nations" (19:15).  "He will rule them with an iron scepter.  He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty" (19:15).  In other words, when the Lord Jesus Christ comes back, He is going to kick some serious butt!  (Yes, this is a mild understatement and perhaps not the best word choice, but it's true!)

With all that's wrong in the world today, I find it comforting that His justice will ultimately be delivered.  His justice will be on a level that has never been seen before.  It will be perfect.  It will be swift, decisive, and final.  As mentioned, I find this comforting given the present evil in this world.  But it's also a sobering thought for those who have it coming, as it will be inescapable.  No amount of money or position will bring rescue.  Government power will mean nothing, for He is the "King of kings and Lord of lords" (19:16).

The good news if you have not placed your trust in Jesus is there is still time.  There is time to turn away from sin and toward Jesus.  Don't delay though!  For none of us knows when Judgment will come.

GrantJ