Some promises are pleasurable, yet briefly enjoyed. The child’s promised ice cream cone is quickly eaten or it melts. God’s promises are more enduring, even eternal.
God is a righteous judge. Paul warned those judging others that they would not escape God’s judgment (Romans 2:3). Some think he has forgotten the promised return of Jesus, but he waits to give many more time to repent (2 Peter 3:9). He acted similarly in Noah’s day (1 Peter 3:20). Those ignoring their opportunity have a shock coming because the Almighty “will render to each one according to his deeds….For there is no partiality with God” (Romans 2:5-6, 11). A day is coming “when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel” (Romans 2:16). All will then receive an eternal promise.
The wicked have a promise of eternal tribulation. Paul and John the Baptist warned of the wrath awaiting some (Romans 2:8-9; John 3:36). The words “does not believe” could literally be translated “disobey, be disobedient, refuse to believe.” Both the NASB and ESV speak of those who do not obey. Eternal tribulation is described by Jesus. “And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matthew 25:30).
The righteous have a promise of eternal life. Paul described this promise to the saints at Rome (Romans 2:7). The word “continuance” carries the idea of remaining under. A competition weight lifter has to hold the weight above his head until he receives the signal, at which time he can drop it. We must hold on to doing good until the time of the reward arrives (Hebrews 3:14).
Jesus said we should keep on asking if we want it to be given to us; keep on seeking if we want to find; and keep on knocking if we want it to be opened to us (Matthew 7:7). Persistence, or patience, is possible when we think like Paul (Romans 8:18). Peter agrees, declaring that his readers might suffer trials so “that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:6-7).
Judgment is coming, along with an eternal reward for each. What reward await your actions?
Gary C. Hampton