Truth or Consequences

Introduction:   Two Models of Truth:

Relative Truth places the individual in control of moral matters; because the standard is within the individual, it is particular to that specific person and circumstance.

Absolute Truth acknowledges that God is the source of all things and that He rules over all; He is the judge of what is true and what is right or wrong.  He also determines the consequences of those things that do not meet the standards of His truth.

The Setting Described

• An Awful Place (Revelation 20:11a)

             --“Great” = the Power of the Throne

             --“White” = the Purity of the Throne

             --“Throne” = the Purpose of this Event (Judgment/Sentencing)

• An Awesome Person (Revelation 20:11b)  (John 5:22)

• An Awkward Position (Revelation 20:11c)

The Summons Delivered

• The Persons Called (Revelation 20:12a)

               --The God-Hater                      

               --The Self-Righteous                 

               --The Procrastinator               

               --The Religious   (Matthew 7:21)

• The Places & Power From Which They are Called (Revelation 20:13a)

The Secrets Displayed

• Secrets Recorded (Revelation 20:12b)  (Ecclesiastes 12:14)  (Romans 2:16)   (Matthew 12:36)

• Secrets Revealed (Revelation 20:12c)  (Luke 12:2)

The Sentence Determined  (Revelation 20:13-14)

• The Sureness of This Judgment

• The Severity of This Judgment

               --No Mercy                

               --No Grace         

               --No Forgiveness

Conclusion:  Three Parts of a Trial:

• Evidence Presented (Revelation 20:12)

• Defense Defending

• Verdict Given (Revelation 20:15)

Game Changer: The truth—you can settle out of court by becoming a follower of Jesus Christ. The consequence—if you don’t, eternal condemnation.