Much has been written about the last days and the end times just prior to the glorious appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. But just how do these events fit together? What is the chronology of events which will take place in the last days? While the following timeline is by no means an exhaustive examination of the end times, my hope is that it will provide a summary overview of the sequence of major events set to take place during this time period:

1) The Rapture of the Church

In all likelihood, the next event on God’s prophetic calendar is the rapture of the church. Loosely translated, the word ‘rapture’ means to ‘catch up’ or ‘snatch away.’ Prior to the Tribulation period, Jesus Christ will return in the clouds to gather all earthly believers unto Himself. Paul revealed this event in his letter to the Corinthians:

“But let me tell you a wonderful secret God has revealed to us. Not all of us will die, but we will all be transformed. It will happen in a moment, in the blinking of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, the Christians who have died will be raised with transformed bodies. And then we who are living will be transformed so that we will never die. For our perishable earthly bodies must be transformed into heavenly bodies that will never die.” 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (NLT)

Paul is clear in his statement that not every Christian will die. Some will be transformed “in the blinking of an eye” before their earthly lives have come to an end. But will this event happen before, during, or after the Tribulation? The answer is clear when this passage is taken in context with other biblical passages.

When Least Expected

Jesus taught His disciples to expect His return at any moment, for no one can know the day of His coming:

“So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” Matthew 24:42-44 (NLT)

The rapture will occur unexpectedly, much like a thief in the night. This is consistent with the teaching of Jesus that no one will know the day or the hour of His coming:

“However, no one knows the day or the hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son Himself. Only the Father knows. When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. In those days before the Flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the Flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.” Matthew 24:36-39 (NLT)

If the return of Jesus to rapture His followers is a truly unexpected event which takes the world by surprise, then by definition most of the world can not be waiting in anticipation. Therefore, the rapture must occur before the Tribulation. Why? Because once the numerous and specific prophecies concerning the Tribulation are being fulfilled in world events, most of the world will take notice. The events of the tribulation will be so earth-shattering in nature, and the corresponding bible prophecies so clear, that a large portion of the world will come to anticipate the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ.

The Promise of Christ

Lest there be any doubt that the rapture occurs before the Tribulation, make note of this promise from Jesus Himself:

“Because you have obeyed my command to persevere, I will protect you from the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world to test those who belong to this world.” Revelation 3:10 (NLT)

Jesus has promised to protect those who follow Him from “the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world.” This time exists to test “those who belong to this world,” not those who belong to Him. Therefore, God’s Word in all its consistency reveals that the rapture will occur before the Tribulation.

2) The War of Gog and Magog

The next event on God’s prophetic timeline is the War of Gog and Magog. The leader of Russia will form a military coalition which includes the nations Iran, Libya, Ethiopia, and Turkey, and he will lead them against the nation of Israel.

“Therefore, son of man, prophesy against Gog. Give him this message from the Sovereign Lord: When my people are living in peace in their land, then you will rouse yourself. You will come from your homeland in the distant north with your vast cavalry and your mighty army, and you will cover the land like a cloud. This will happen in the distant future. I will bring you against my land as everyone watches, and my holiness will be displayed by what happens to you. Then all the nations will know that I am the Lord.” Ezekiel 38:14-16 (NLT)

God will display His glory to all the nations of the world by personally destroying this Russian military coalition. This will happen either at the beginning of, or sometime before, the tribulation. How do we know? Because God tells us the nation of Israel will use the leftover implements of this war as fuel for seven years:

“Then the people in the towns of Israel will go out and pick up your small and large shields, bows and arrows, javelins and spears, and they will use them for fuel. There will be enough to last them seven years!” Ezekiel 39:9 (NLT)

It seems unlikely that Israel will use these weapons as fuel during the Millennial Kingdom, since Jesus Christ will provide all the light and energy that is needed for daily living. And since the tribulation leading up to the Millennial Kingdom lasts a total of seven years, it’s only logical that the War of Gog and Magog either takes place before the tribulation or else marks it beginning.

3) The Antichrist’s 7-Year Covenant with Israel

The Antichrist will reveal himself by confirming a covenant with the nation of Israel:

“He will make a treaty with the people for a period of one set of seven” Daniel 9:27 (NLT)

The details and nature of this treaty are yet unknown, but many have speculated that in a bid for Middle Eastern peace, Israel will agree to rely on the Antichrist for its national defense. It is generally accepted that the signing of this accord with Israel will mark the beginning of the Tribulation period.

4) The Tribulation (Daniel’s 70th Week)

As previously stated, the War of Gog and Magog either occurs at the beginning of the tribulation or signals its approach. The tribulation is a period of seven years of turmoil and horror which will come upon the world. The time period is also known as Daniel’s seventieth week, as the concept was laid out by God in the Book of Daniel:

“A period of seventy sets of seven has been decreed for your people and your holy city to finish their rebellion, to put an end to their sin, to atone for their guilt, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to confirm the prophetic vision, and to anoint the Most Holy Place.” Daniel 9:24 (NLT)

This passage clearly states that a period of 490 years is allotted for the nation of Israel to accomplish God’s purposes. It also reveals that 483 of those years have already passed:

“Now listen and understand! Seven sets of seven plus sixty-two sets of seven will pass from the time the command is given to rebuild Jerusalem until a ruler – the Anointed One – comes. Jerusalem will be rebuilt with streets and strong defenses, despite the perilous times.” Daniel 9:24-25 (NLT)

This prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus Christ appeared 483 years after the command was given to rebuild Jerusalem. The arrival of Jesus Christ fulfilled 69 of the prophetic 7-year periods outlined in the Book of Daniel, with one period yet remaining:

“After this period of sixty-two sets of seven, the Anointed One will be killed, appearing to have accomplished nothing, and a ruler will arise whose armies will destroy the city and the Temple. The end will come with a flood, and war and its miseries are decreed from that time to the very end.” Daniel 9:26 (NLT)

This time period will also witness the 7 Seal Judgments (Revelation 6:1-17) and the 7 Trumpet Judgments (Revelation 8:1-9:21)

Since the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the world has been living on borrowed time. Once the rapture of the church puts an end to the “Age of Grace,” the final seven year period will begin. This is widely known as the Tribulation, and it officially begins with the Antichrist’s confirmation of a covenant with Israel.

5) Global Government

During the Tribulation, the Antichrist will consolidate his power quickly. All the nations of the world will soon fall under his authority:

“And he was given authority to rule over every tribe and people and language and nation.” Revelation 13:7 (NLT)

In fact, not one person will escape the reach of the Antichrist and his governmental dominion:

“He required everyone – great and small, rich and poor, slave and free – to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.” Revelation 13:16-17 (NLT)

The Antichrist will have unprecedented control over the world’s financial transactions. He will have so much power that he will be able to determine on a case-by-case basis which individuals will be allowed to buy or sell anything.

6) Satan Thrown to the Earth

At the midpoint of the Tribulation period, a war will break out in heaven:

“Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. This great dragon – the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world – was thrown down to the earth with all his angels. Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, ‘It has come at last – salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth – the one who accuses them before our God day and night. And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die. Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! But terror will come on the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you in great anger, knowing that he has little time.’” Revelation 12:7-12 (NLT)

Traditionally, people have believed Satan resides in Hell, but Hell is actually his future destination. Up until the midpoint of the Tribulation, Satan will continue to reside in heaven. The Book of Job confirms the assertion that Satan resides in heaven, where he accuses mankind before the Lord, day and night:

“One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the Lord, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them.” Job 1:6 (NLT)

Many have often wondered why God allows evil to exist. They fail to understand that we live in the midst of an epic spiritual war, pitting the forces of evil (Satan) against the forces of righteousness (Jesus). To mankind, Satan’s rebellion is an event from the ancient past, but on God’s eternal timeline, it’s a relatively recent event. Nevertheless, God will not tolerate Satan’s rebellion, and the ultimate victor in this war is clear. Satan will lose, and his defeat in the battle for heaven will result in his being thrown down to earth.

This event will occur at the mid-point of the Tribulation, and it will mark a terrible time for those who live on the earth.

7) The Abomination of Desolation

Satan’s crushing defeat and subsequent fall to earth will coincide with another prophesied event – the abomination of desolation. In fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy, the Antichrist will enter the Jewish Temple and proclaim himself to be God. He will set up an image in the Holy Place and demand the world worship it:

“He will put an end to the sacrifices and offerings. Then as a climax to all his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration, until the end that has been decreed is poured out on this defiler.” Daniel 9:27 (NLT)

Jesus warned His disciples of this terrible event:

“The time will come when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about: the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place.” Matthew 24:16 (NLT)

And the apostle Paul also described this abominable act:

“He will exalt himself and defy every god there is and tear down every object of adoration and worship. He will position himself in the temple of God, claiming that he himself is God.” 2 Thessalonians 2:4 (NLT)

The bible is clear that the abomination of desolation will occur at the mid-point of the Tribulation:

“The ruler will make a treaty with the people for a period of one set of seven, but after half this time, he will put an end to the sacrifices and offerings. And as a climax to all his terrible deeds, he will set up a sacrilegious object that causes desecration, until the fate decreed for this defiler is finally poured out on him.” Daniel 9:27 (NLT)

8) The Jews Flee Israel

Following the abomination of desolation, the Jews will flee Israel:

“‘The day is coming when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about – the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place.’ (Reader, pay attention!) ‘Then those in Judea must flee to the hills. A person out on the deck of a roof must not go down into the house to pack. A person out in the field must not return even to get a coat. How terrible it will be for pregnant women and for nursing mothers in those days. And pray that your flight will not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For there will be greater anguish than at any time since the world began. And it will never be so great again.’” Matthew 24:15-21 (NLT)

The Jewish people, the nation of Israel, will flee into the wilderness where God Himself will supernaturally protect them from a second holocaust at the hands of the Antichrist:

“And the woman fled into the wilderness, where God had prepared a place to care for her for 1,260 days.” Revelation 12:6 (NLT)

The Jews who escape will remain under God’s protection for the duration of the Tribulation period, three and a half years.

9) The Mark of the Beast

As part of his nefarious system of self-worship, the Antichrist will establish a global financial system by which no one can buy or sell without his permission:

“He required everyone – great and small, rich and poor, slave and free – to be given a mark on the right hand or on the forehead. And no one could buy or sell anything without that mark, which was either the name of the beast or the number representing his name.” Revelation 13:16-17 (NLT)

The Antichrist and his followers will pay a hefty price for accepting the mark of the beast. The Bible tells us that ALL who accept the mark of the beast will face eternal judgment for their decision. The following verses reveal the consequences of this rebellion against God:

“Then a third angel followed them, shouting, ‘Anyone who worships the beast and his statue or who accepts his mark on the forehead or the hand must drink the wine of God’s wrath. It is poured out undiluted into God’s cup of wrath. And they will be tormented with fire and burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and the Lamb. The smoke of their torment rises forever and ever, and they will have no relief day or night, for they have worshiped the beast and his statue and have accepted the mark of his name.” Revelation 14:9-11 (NLT)

Acceptance of the mark is not a matter to be taken lightly. Anyone who accepts the mark denies Christ in favor of a false god. This decision, once made, is irrevocable, and the consequences are everlasting.

10) The Great Tribulation

The final three and a half years of the Tribulation will be known as The Great Tribulation, a time of unrivaled horror. The 7 Bowl Judgments (Revelation 16:1-21) will take place during this time. And the Antichrist, demanding the world worship him as if he were God Almighty, will institute a world-wide campaign to murder and destroy all those who worship the one true God. This period is known as The Great Tribulation, and it comprises the final three and a half years of the seven year Tribulation:

“He will defy the Most High and oppress the holy people of the Most High. He will try to change their sacred festivals and laws, and they will be placed under his control for a time, times, and half a time.” Daniel 7:25 (NLT)

“Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do whatever he wanted for forty-two months.” Revelation 13:5 (NLT)

“There she would be cared for and protected from the dragon for a time, times, and half a time.” Revelation 12:14 (NLT)

“They will trample the holy city for 42 months. And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will be clothed in burlap and will prophesy during those 1,260 days.” Revelation 11:2-3 (NLT)

The bible is clear in stating that the Great Tribulation will occur in the last three and a half years before the Glorious Appearing of Jesus Christ.

11) The Appearance of the Two Witnesses

During this time, God will give power to two witnesses, who will prophesy throughout the Great Tribulation:

“And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will be clothed in sackcloth and will prophesy during those 1,260 days. These two prophets are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of all the earth. If anyone tries to harm them, fire flashes from the mouths of the prophets and consumes their enemies. This is how anyone who tries to harm them must die. They have power to shut the skies so that no rain will fall for as long as they prophesy. And they have the power to turn the rivers and oceans into blood, and to send every kind of plague upon the earth as often as they wish.” Revelation 11:3-6 (NLT)

For 1,260 days, these two witnesses will prophesy to the world, and despite a plethora of enemies, no one will be able to harm them. During that time, they will have the power to end rainfall, turn the rivers and oceans to blood, and send every kind of plague upon the earth.

12) Babylon Destroyed in One Hour

In the last days, the City of Babylon will not only rise to worldly prominence once again, but it will face the judgment of God Almighty in a single day:

“Therefore, these plagues will overtake her in a single day – death and mourning and famine. She will be completely consumed by fire, for the Lord God who judges her is mighty. And the kings of the world who committed adultery with her and enjoyed her great luxury will mourn for her as they see the smoke rising from her charred remains. They will stand at a distance, terrified by her great torment. They will cry out, ‘How terrible, how terrible for you, O Babylon, you great city! In a single moment God’s judgment came on you.’” Revelation 18:8-10 (NLT)

The merchants and kings of the world will mourn the destruction of this worldly city, which had been the apex of human rebellion. The city of Babylon will become a city of unparalleled wealth and opulence, as well as a city of debauchery, idolatry, sorcery, sexual immorality, and every other sort of unholy abomination. In the aftermath of its judgment, those who reveled in its sins will literally sob because of its loss.

13) The Death of the Two Witnesses

At the end of the Great Tribulation, when their testimony is complete, the two witnesses of God will be killed. Their bodies will lie unburied in the main street of Jerusalem as the world celebrates its good fortune:

“When they complete their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the bottomless pit will declare war against them. He will conquer them and kill them. And their bodies will lie in the main street of Jerusalem, the city which is called ‘Sodom’ and ‘Egypt,’ the city where their Lord was crucified. And for three and a half days, all peoples, tribes, languages, and nations will come to stare at their bodies. No one will be allowed to bury them. All the people who belong to this world will give presents to each other to celebrate the death of the two prophets who had tormented them.” Revelation 11:7-10 (NLT)

However, what happens next will strike fear in those who dare to celebrate:

“But after three and a half days, the spirit of life from God entered them, and they stood up! And terror struck all who were staring at them. Then a loud voice shouted from heaven, ‘Come up here!’ And they rose to heaven in a cloud as their enemies watched. And in the same hour there was a terrible earthquake that destroyed a tenth of the city. Seven thousand people died in that earthquake. And everyone who did not die was terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven.” Revelation 11:11-13 (NLT)

Just as Jesus Christ rose from the dead after three days and three nights, so will His two witnesses be resurrected after three and a half days. The Book of Revelation tells us that terror will strike all those who are staring at them.

14) The Gathering at Armageddon

In the aftermath of Satan being thrown to the earth, mankind will attempt to cast off every restraint of God’s authority. The evil demons under his command will convince the leaders of the world to gather together in order to do battle against God Almighty and His Son Jesus Christ:

“And I saw three evil spirits that looked like frogs leap from the mouth of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet. These miracle-working demons caused all the rulers of the world to gather for battle against the Lord on that great judgment day of God Almighty.” Revelation 16:13-14 (NLT)

The final gathering place for this battle will be a geographical location in the nation of Israel, known as Armageddon:

“And they gathered all the rulers and their armies to a place called Armageddon in Hebrew.” Revelation 16:16 (NLT)

It is here, at Armageddon, that the final human attempt at world government will come to an end. In fulfillment of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, the statue which represents human government will be smashed by the supernatural. The Millennial Kingdom of Jesus Christ will take its place, and it will never be destroyed.

15) The Glorious Appearing of Jesus Christ

While gathered at Armageddon, rebellious humanity will witness the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ:

“For as lightning lights up the entire sky, so it will be when the Son of Man comes.” Matthew 24:27 (NLT)

The appearance of Christ in the sky will be unmistakable to the people of this world. As they gather to do battle with Him, Christ will take up their challenge and take on the entire human race:

“Then the Lord will go out to fight against those nations, as he has fought in times past. On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem. And the Mount of Olives will split apart, making a wide valley running from east to west. Half the mountain will move toward the north and half toward the south. You will flee through this valley, for it will reach across to Azal. Yes, you will flee as you did from the earthquake in the days of King Uzziah of Judah. Then the Lord my God will come, and all his holy ones with him.” Zechariah 14:3-5 (NLT)

As the Lord’s feet touch down on the Mount of Olives, a giant earthquake will split the ground. Jesus Christ will come in vengeance against His enemies, as the Commander of Heaven’s Armies.

16) The Birth of the Millennial Kingdom

Following His victory over the enemies of God, Jesus Christ will establish the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth:

“On that day the sources of light will no longer shine, yet there will be continuous day! Only the Lord knows how this could happen. There will be no normal day and night, for at evening time it will still be light. On that day life-giving waters will flow out from Jerusalem, half toward the Dead Sea and half toward the Mediterranean, flowing continuously in both summer and winter. And the Lord will be king over all the earth. On that day there will be one Lord – his name alone will be worshiped.” Zechariah 14:6-9 (NLT)

And the world will rejoice, because the world will finally be filled with peace and justice!

What happens when a person dies? This question has plagued mankind since its inception. It’s a pretty good bet that almost everyone capable of rational thought has pondered this question at some point in his/her lifetime. To some people, death is scary – while to others, death is a peaceful state to be embraced.

Numerous cultures and civilizations have given birth to myths and speculations concerning the afterlife, but few people ever discover the true answer. And among those who do, only a small minority openly exhibit signs of preparing for what’s ahead.

As a result, physical death is a rather odd thing – everyone knows it’s coming, but very few prepare for it.

In all likelihood, a much larger number of people would make preparations for life after death if they had greater knowledge of their ultimate destination. So where does a person go following physical death? The most reliable explanation comes from the Bible, a work which has stood the test of time, weathered a barrage of critics, and demonstrated its divine nature through the fulfillment of hundreds of prophecies. Some of these prophetic statements pertain to events following physical death, and they reveal two staggeringly different destinations for mankind.

The bible has much to say about the afterlife, and we can have complete confidence in its accuracy. In it, the prophets, as well as Jesus Christ Himself, reveal in vivid detail what happens when a human being dies. Unfortunately, a great number of people have and will continue to pass away without first preparing for their future destination, and this lack of preparation will be lamented by both Christians and non-Christians alike.

A Deceased Human Being Travels To One of Two Places

According to the bible, when a person dies, they go to one of two places:

1) Torment
or
2) Paradise

These destinations are commonly referred to as heaven and hell. Jesus verified the reality of these places in His parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus:

“Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham.” Luke 16:22 (NLT)

And

“The rich man also died and was buried, and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side.” Luke 16:22-23 (NLT)

In addition, these two places are divided by a great chasm that can not be crossed:

“And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.” Luke 16:26 (NLT)

By definition, these destinations are permanent.

Paradise

Paradise is the final destination of those who place their faith in God and His Son, Jesus Christ. During the crucifixion, one of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus expressed His belief in the Son of the Living God. Jesus responded by assuring the man He would enter paradise that day:

“Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.’ And Jesus replied, ‘I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.’” Luke 23:42-43 (NLT)

In paradise, God will dwell among His people, and death, sorrow, crying, and pain will be gone forever:

“I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, ‘Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.’” Revelation 21:3-4 (NLT)

“No longer will there be a curse upon anything. For the throne of God and of the Lamb will be there, and his servants will worship him. And they will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads.” Revelation 22:3-4 (NLT)

Paul spoke in reverence of this place, which he had the distinct honor of visiting:

“I was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don’t know – only God knows. Yes, only God knows whether I was in my body or outside my body. But I do know that I was caught up to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no human is allowed to tell.” 2 Corinthians 12:2-4 (NLT)

“For “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT)

Paradise is a place of indescribable joy and beauty, where men and women will experience fellowship with their Creator.

Torment

Torment, or hell, is also a very real place often referenced by Jesus:

“So if your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand or one foot than to be thrown into eternal fire with both of your hands and feet.” Matthew 18:8 (NLT)

According to Jesus, torment is such an awful place that a person should do anything to avoid it. In fact, a person should go so far as to cut off their own hands and feet if doing so will mean avoiding the pain of torment. Jesus described torment as a place of weeping and gnashing of teeth:

“But many Israelites – those for whom the Kingdom was prepared – will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 8:12 (NLT)

The number of verses testifying to the reality of torment and the reality of people being cast into hell are too numerous for a short article such as this one, but a diligent search will reveal many scriptural references. Below are just a few passages which shed light on the truth about this place:

“They are doomed to blackest darkness.” 2 Peter 2:17 (NLT)

“And I remind you of the angels who did not stay within the limits of authority God gave them but left the place where they belonged. God has kept them securely chained in prisons of darkness, waiting for the great day of judgment. And don’t forget Sodom and Gomorrah and their neighboring towns, which were filled with immorality and every kind of sexual perversion. Those cities were destroyed by fire and serve as a warning of the eternal fire of God’s judgment.” Jude 1:6-7 (NLT)

“Then the Devil, who betrayed them, was thrown into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur, joining the beast and the false prophet. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” Revelation 20:10 (NLT)

Jesus described torment as “eternal punishment,” but in doing so, He offered a message of hope:

“And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.” Matthew 25:46 (NLT)

The message Jesus preached is that torment can be avoided and paradise can be obtained. But where a person spends eternity is completely dependent on that person’s individual relationship with Jesus Christ.

If You Accept Christ

Let’s return to the scene of the crucifixion, where one of the criminals asked for Jesus to remember him:

“Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.’ And Jesus replied, ‘I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.’” Luke 23:42-43 (NLT)

Jesus didn’t promise to see both crucified criminals in paradise, but only the one who acknowledged his own sin, while recognizing the blameless life of Jesus. This is because the criminal’s belief in Christ opened the door for him to enter into paradise.

Jesus Christ is the way and the truth and the life. Those who accept the sacrifice of Christ on the cross as atonement for their sins will enjoy everlasting life and avoid the torment of hell.

Why This Happens

So why does this happen? Why is Jesus Christ the only gateway through which human beings can enter into paradise?

Because all of us are born into sin, we are all condemned – banished from the presence of God who, in His infinite justice, can not tolerate the presence of the unholy. In order to make us holy, blameless in the eyes of God, Jesus Christ paid the price of humanity’s sin through His blood on the cross:

“For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood.” Romans 3:25 (NLT)

The above statement by Paul is in complete agreement with the Law of Moses:

“In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.” Hebrews 9:22 (NLT)

“For the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord. It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible.” Leviticus 17:11 (NLT)

Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness. Therefore, Christ shed His blood in order that we might be forgiven:

“Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.” 1 Peter 3:18 (NLT)

Christ even paid the penalty for the sins of those who died prior to His First Coming – prior to His ministry, His death, and His resurrection:

“That is why the Good News was preached to those who are now dead – so although they were destined to die like all people, they now live forever with God in the Spirit.” 1 Peter 4:6 (NLT)

“That is why the Scriptures say, ‘When he ascended to the heights, he led a crowd of captives and gave gifts to his people.’ Notice that it says ‘he ascended.’ This clearly means that Christ also descended to our lowly world. And the same one who descended is the one who ascended higher than all the heavens, so that he might fill the entire universe with himself.” Ephesians 4:8-10 (NLT)

Because of the wonderful sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the door is open for anyone to establish a personal relationship with the Alpha and the Omega – the very Lord of the Universe!

“But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.” Romans 5:8-11 (NLT)

Unfortunately, many people will inexplicably reject the free gift offered by Jesus. For such people, torment is their only future.

If You Reject Christ

Those who reject the sacrifice of Christ on the cross will die in their own sins, because they will have no one to intervene and pay the penalty for them. As a result, they can not enter paradise, because God dwells in paradise and God can not tolerate the presence of sin and still be just.

All those who reject Christ will have their names stricken from the Book of Life, a heavenly book which records the name of every human being ever born. Anyone who wants to live in paradise, must have their name written in the Book of Life:

“Then death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire is the second death. And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:14-15 (NLT)

It’s a monumental tragedy that even one person in all of history would reject Christ’s offer of reconciliation with God. Yet sadly, entire multitudes of people will do so. The gift of Christ is free of charge – He already paid the price for us! Why then, do people turn Him away?

For many, pride will be their ultimate downfall. In their refusal to acknowledge Jesus Christ as King of kings, they will condemn themselves. Yet, in the end, they will still bow to Him and confess His name:

“I have sworn by my own name; I have spoken the truth, and I will never go back on my word: Every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will confess allegiance to me.” Isaiah 45:23 (NLT)

“For the Scriptures say, ‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will confess and give praise to God.’” Romans 14:11 (NLT)

Why This Happens

Why does this happen? Why must God condemn people in everlasting torment?

If it weren’t for Christ, all would be condemned:

“When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.” Romans 5:12 (NLT)

However, because of Christ, it’s not necessary that a single person be condemned. Unfortunately, many people reject Christ and attempt to enter paradise on their own terms:

“I know what enthusiasm they have for God, but it is misdirected zeal. For they don’t understand God’s way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God’s way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law. For Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God. For Moses writes that the law’s way of making a person right with God requires obedience to all of its commands.” Romans 10:2-5 (NLT)

Only one person ever lived a life in complete obedience to all of God’s commands. As a result, only one pathway leads into paradise – the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 (NLT)

Those who refuse to acknowledge the truth and continue in their reckless living are condemned in the eyes of God, and they will judged accordingly:

“Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice that will cover these sins. There is only the terrible expectation of God’s judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies. For anyone who refused to obey the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Just think how much worse the punishment will be for those who have trampled on the Son of God, and have treated the blood of the covenant, which made us holy, as if it were common and unholy, and have insulted and disdained the Holy Spirit who brings God’s mercy to us.” Hebrews 10:26-29 (NLT)

“Anyone who doesn’t obey the Son will never experience eternal life but remains under God’s angry judgment.” John 3:36 (NLT)

“But all who reject me and my message will be judged on the day of judgment by the truth I have spoken.” John 12:48 (NLT)

Whether a person believes in Him or not, a day of judgment is in the future. God has made this promise.

Every Person Will Be Judged According To His Works

In addition to entering either torment or paradise, every person who has ever lived must stand before Christ to be judged:

“For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.” 2 Corinthians 5:10 (NLT)

“But I, the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.” Jeremiah 17:10 (NLT)

“So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. For the Scriptures say, ‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will confess and give praise to God.’ Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall.” Romans 14:10-12 (NLT)

Even those who are washed clean in the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, must face judgment for their works:

“For the time has come for judgment, and it must begin with God’s household. And if judgment begins with us, what terrible fate awaits those who have never obeyed God’s Good News? And also, ‘If the righteous are barely saved, what will happen to godless sinners?’” 1 Peter 4:17-18 (NLT)

Each believer will receive a reward for what he or she has done for Christ. Therefore, Christians should not judge each other in this life, because only God knows the secret motives behind each person’s works.

“So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time – before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.” 1 Corinthians 4:5 (NLT)

Unfortunately, some Christians will experience great regret on their day of judgment because they will have few or no works to present to Christ. However, those who trust in Jesus need not be afraid on the day of judgment:

“And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.” 1 John 4:17 (NLT)

Such will not be the case for those who have rejected Him. They will be judged by the One they have denied:

”Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill you. They can only kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28 (NLT)

“If anyone acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will openly acknowledge that person before my Father in heaven. But if anyone denies me here on earth, I will deny that person before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32-33 (NLT)

This Life Matters… It Has Eternal Consequences!

If you don’t think this life matters, think again! Each person’s life here on earth has eternal consequences. A spiritual war is being waged in the heavenly realms, and the human race is a battlefront in that war. A clear line has been drawn. A person is either for or against Jesus Christ. One cannot be both, but one can always switch to the side of Christ and be forgiven. For it is God’s will that not one soul be lost:

“If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he will rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn’t wander away! In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father’s will that even one of these little ones should perish.” Matthew 18:12-14 (NLT)

That is why God gave His only Son as a sacrifice for mankind:

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NLT)

To all who are thirsty, Christ offers living water. Those who drink it will never be thirsty again:

“Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life.” Revelation 22:17 (NLT)

They will never be disappointed for trusting in Him:

“And anyone who believes in Him will never be disappointed.” 1 Peter 2:6 (NLT)

But time is short. The end of this age is fast coming to a close. Do you know what will happen when you die? If not, then now is the time to prepare for that day, for Christ is coming soon:

“Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Revelation 22:12-13 (NLT)