Re: [TruthTalk] The Mediation of Christ

[LaurHamm]

In a message dated 5/20/2004 12:11:52 PM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: The thing that a lot of Christians seem to miss is that both believers and unbelievers will be judged for their works.  I preach to Christians all the time who retort that God will not judge them for their works because of Jesus Christ.  They think they can get drunk on the weekends and fornicate, and God accepts them just as they are because of the vicarious atonement provided by Jesus Christ.  My response to them is that they are deceived.  All men will be resurrected and all men will come before Jesus Christ and be judged for what they have done.  The only difference for the believer is if he has repented of his sins and has been set free of his sins.  Such a believer will not have criminal charges brought against him based upon his past sins.  Those have been pardoned.  Nevertheless, the fruit of his works will be examined just as they are for the sinner, but the reason is not to show his condemnation because the works of the believer are of Christ and therefore righteous. Why then examine them?  To see how they brought forth good fruit unto the kingdom of God. This is so true.  I sometimes question their decision to follow Christ in the first place.  i think that while works do not save us they are "fruit" of our salvation. Evidence of their salvation would be keeping the commandments of Jesus Christ.  Therefore, "Christians" who are homosexuals, thieves, murderers, extortioners, or covetous are not saved. Agreed unless there is repentance and restoration.   Laura