We can imagine that on “the judgment of the great day” (Jude 1:6), there will be many excuses. Let’s consider some.
“But, Lord, what about all of the good that I have done?” This sounds like Matthew 7:22: “Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not… done many wonders in Your name?’” But what will Jesus say? “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” (7:23). What was their shortcoming? They failed to do the Father’s will (7:21). The Lord wants us to be “zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14), but all the good works in the world cannot cover sin.
“But, Lord, I was just doing what other folks were doing.” Christ taught that this course of action leads to destruction: “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it” (Matthew 7:13). Remember, something is not right in God’s sight just because a lot of people are doing it.
“But, Lord, I was always so busy with work and everything that I didn’t have time for church.” A more truthful statement is that one does not make time. Jesus warned: “And the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (Mark 4:19).
“Lord, I am sorry for the way that I lived. If I had a chance to do it again, I would do better.” No one gets a second chance. “It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Our life on earth is a one-shot deal (Titus 2:12).
Let us all be certain that we are prepared for that day, so we won’t need any excuses.
“Prepare to meet your God, O Israel” – Amos 4:12
See also: Judgement Day Excuses that Will Not Work
