God’s Judgment and Mercy

Opening Verse

“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” – 2 Corinthians 5:21 (KJV)

Introduction

The ultimate judgment for sin fell on Jesus Christ at the cross. His sacrifice was God’s profound act of love and mercy, satisfying the justice of a holy God. Yet, the final judgment remains for those who reject this gift of grace. Every person faces a choice: to accept Christ’s payment for sin or to bear the weight of judgment themselves.

Devotional Story

A young man named Mark wrestled with guilt over choices that had hurt others deeply. He had heard about Jesus but believed his sins were too great to be forgiven. One day, while sitting in a church, he heard the pastor read Romans 6:23:

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

The words struck his heart. He realized that Jesus had already taken the punishment he deserved. The cross was the place where God’s justice and mercy met. Tears streamed down Mark’s face as he knelt and accepted Jesus as his Savior, feeling the weight of his guilt lift.

Mark’s story is a reminder that God doesn’t want us to carry the burden of sin. Jesus already bore it for us. Yet, there is a warning: to refuse His gift is to face the eternal consequences of sin.

What This Means

The cross is the greatest act of love in history. Jesus took our place, absorbing the judgment for sin so we could receive eternal life. However, rejecting His sacrifice leaves us exposed to the final judgment—a separation from God forever.

God’s offer is simple: repent, believe in Jesus, and receive forgiveness. His judgment for sin was placed on Jesus, but His final judgment will come to those who refuse to accept this free gift.

Think About This

• Have you fully accepted Jesus’ sacrifice for your sins?
• What holds you back from embracing His mercy and forgiveness?
• How does the reality of the final judgment stir you to share the Gospel with others?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for taking the judgment I deserve upon Yourself. I accept Your gift of forgiveness and eternal life. Help me to live in the light of Your mercy and share Your love with others. Give me the boldness to point others to the cross, so they too may escape the final judgment. Amen.

Closing Verse

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” – John 3:36 (KJV)