Work of Christ
The Father has given Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man John 5:27
“Look who’s laughing now!” One can picture someone with a petty spirit of vengeance saying these words. I can almost picture a moment in a coming-of-age movie where a “nerdy” child pictures himself confronting his bullies years later, but this time he has all the power, because he’s their boss.
To say that’s how Jesus was when He looked at His scoffers is a big mischaracterization. Jesus wants all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. He wanted to gather rebellious Jerusalem under His affectionate wing, like a mother hen with her young. It is true that Jesus will be the judge of all at the end of days. Those who spurned the LORD in unbelief, whether loudly or quietly, will be sent to the eternal fires of hell. Jesus will say as Judge to them, “depart from Me, you cursed . . . ” (Matthew 25:41)
Jesus does not want this for people, that is why He gave His life as the ultimate case for your innocence. He suffered hell for you, in your place. He did this so that when He returns at judgment day, He as judge will say to you and all who have been called to saving faith in Him, “Come, you blessed of my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the World.” (Matthew 25:34)
When we suffer for Christ’s name’s sake, we are truly blessed to have the same perspective: Jesus died even for them, and there still is time. It is our prayer and hope that as many people as possible may come to know Jesus as their Savior—to know He died on the cross to save them. That way, when He returns, they may join us in hearing the Judge’s sweetest pronouncement of innocence—the very innocence given through Him.
O Christ, who diedst and yet dost live, to me impart Thy merit;
My pardon seal, my sins forgive, and cleanse me by Thy Spirit.
Beneath Thy cross I view the day when heaven and earth shall pass away,
And thus prepare to meet Thee.
The Lutheran Hymnal 604:4