THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT

" . . .each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is"
(1 Cor 3:13)

Men are prone to be premature in their evaluation of both people and organizations–but God will not allow for such judgment. We are exhorted, "judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts" (1 Cor 4:5). We are too easily deceived by appearances, and thus are not to form judgments based upon them. Elsewhere Jesus said, "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment" (John 7:24). We must exercise ourselves to heed this word.

God has scheduled a time when every work of men will be evaluated. At that time, the real nature of every work will be "revealed." In the fiery presence of the Lord, everything incompatible with eternity, and out of synch with the Divine agenda, will be burned up. Works that have NOT been wrought in fellowship with the Lord will be unable to stand in His Presence. Humanly conceived agendas will be obliterated. Works that were founded on human wisdom will go up in smoke. All of this will be apparent to an assembled universe. How sorely a professional religious world needs to hear this word–as well as every person claiming identity with the Lord Jesus Christ!

The particular focus of this passage is the converts made by people. They are the "work" in reference. Some are referred to as consumable "wood, hay, and stubble," while others are imperishable "gold, silver, and precious stones" (1 Cor 3:12). Note what is proclaimed here! Standing the tests of life is essential, but not the most essential. Every person will stand before God, and surviving THAT test is to be the target of every Kingdom labor.

If those whom we have influenced for Christ do not stand up under Divine scrutiny, we will "suffer loss" (1 Cor 3:15). That is not a casual word, but one of greatest gravity. On the other hand, if those we have discipled endure exposure to our great God, we "will receive a reward" (1 Cor 3:14). There is no middle ground– we will either have something taken from us, or given to us!

How do you think the world's great preachers and teachers will appear on that day? Do you suppose the figures they have reported on earth will be shouted out in heaven? What of the successful churches–or at least those who have said they were successful? How will they emerge in the day that declares the nature of their accomplishments? It is best to think about that now.

PRAYER POINT: Father, through Jesus Christ, grant me grace to prepare for the day of thorough and final evaluation.

-- MONDAY: THE ANOINTING --