Where Love And Wrath Meet

Last updated:
31 December 2022

“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your [God’s] throne…” (Ps 89:14, ESV).

"But as he [Paul] was discussing righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened
and said, "Go away for the present, and when I find time I will summon you" (Acts 24:25, NASB).

“ ‘Because He has fixed a day [time] on which He will judge the world [us] in righteousness by a Man [Christ]
whom He [the Father] has appointed; and of this He has given assurance to all by raising him from the
dead [Christ’s crucifixion]’ ” (Acts 17:31, ESV).

“For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing...”  (Eccl 12:14, NKJV).

"Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through him [with a repentant heart and a desire to obey], because He always lives to intercede for them [to plead on their behalf]” (Heb 7:25, NIV).

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish,
but have everlasting life" (John 3:16, KJV).

1.  Why God's Day Of Judgment Shouts His Love

Well, to be honest, it’s not really a day, but a period of time, and,
According to Scripture, that time has begun, hence we looking at hourglass sand.
You see, we’re told that Christ will be bringing His reward with Him — yes, one day soon —
And one might say, He bursting sheriff-like through those drab doors of Satan’s saloon.

Yes, Christ must cast His eyes over the records of all, for justice must be done,
And there’s His love for a start, the Father having given this job to His Son.
You see, it was His Son who died on our behalf, spent those thirty odd years here,
And thus our well-being a very personal thing for Him, we precious and dear.

And you, my friend, possibly one of the many who has been treated badly,
Raped, tortured, wrongly imprisoned, and even harmed by other Christians, sadly.
And this why Christ must search every single heart, noticing every secret thing,
For love can’t let evil go unpunished, and why a sickle He’ll also bring.

But once again, that’s love, God’s justice thinking of you and I, other worlds too,
The universe not marred by same ill and evil again, this Earth made anew.
Hence that descending new Jerusalem (Revelation chapter twenty one),
And within it, not just the saved, but He who’ll dwell with us, Jesus Christ the Son.

Yes, it’s so easy to think of God’s judgment as a negative thing, but hey,
Who wants their joy and happiness spoilt again, and shouldn’t justice have its day?
O course it should! Folk crying out for such every day, and voices from the past,
Hence why the God of both love and justice won’t let suffering and evil last.

And this why Christians must come under scrutiny too, many hardly true blue,
But hypocrites and charlatans, Satan not just busy outside, but inside too.
All why Christ warned of wolves within, false teachers and even false messiahs, who,
Might even fool the watchmen on the walls, getting away with some kind of coup.

And this why Christ says He also chastises, lest folk suffer eternal ruin,
For when it comes to our demise, there’s always something that the devil’s brew’n.
And why even here we see God’s love, our best interests deep within His heart,
And why those who scoff at a day of judgment separate the horse from its cart.

Yes, I can’t state it enough: God’s day of judgment shouts His love, parental care,
And hence why He warns, shows us the way; the raging lion and lying serpent near.
But we only needing to take Christ’s hand, Satan no match for our Saviour, and,
We via repentance, faithfulness and God’s grace, soon entering the promised land.

You know,

This Earth was judged in Noah’s day where God could’ve simply destroyed everyone,
But such not being His way, so enter Calvary and the Father’s only Son.
And Christ having delayed His coming wanting more folk saved, and why once again,
We see a love that’s also patient, a love faintly captured by voice or pen.

By Lance Landall


“Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth.
He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come [is in session]. Worship Him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water [a reference to the Creator God]’ ”
(Rev 14:6,7, NIV).

" 'Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with Me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done' "
(Rev 22:12, NIV). 





THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT GOD'S JUDGMENT

Hitler and his ilk won't get  away with their crimes — will get their comeuppance, then be no more.

“ ‘Do not be marvel at this, for an hour is coming [the Second Coming] when all who are in the tombs will hear His [Christ’s] voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life [the Second Coming], and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment’ ” (John 5:28,29, ESV).

“The rest of the dead [the wicked struck down at Christ’s Second Coming (2 Thess 1:7,8)] did not come to life
until the thousand years were ended [then the second resurrection]...” (Rev 20:5, RSV).

“Now when the thousand years have expired, Satan [who was confined, alive, along with his angels, to the depopulated desolate earth] will be released from his prison [to face the ‘second death’ (Rev 21:8)]” (Rev 20:7, NKJV).

Satan and his band of nasty angels won't get away with their evil — will get their comeuppance, then be no more.

“And they [the wicked, Satan and his angels (Rev 20:8)] marched [preparing to attack] up over the broad earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city [the descending New Jerusalem containing the saints and Christ (Rev 21:1-3)]; but fire came down from heaven and consumed them [the ‘second death’ (Rev 21:8)], And the devil who had deceived them [the wicked] was thrown into the lake of fire and  brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet were [the End-time world wide persecuting power], and they will be tormented day and night for ever and ever [metaphoric symbolism denoting complete destruction]” (Rev 20:9,10, RSV). 

Those who lied and deceived (unless repentant) won't get away with their ill — will get their comeuppance, then be no more.

“ ‘But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the polluted, as for murderers, fornicators, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their lot shall be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death’ ” (Rev 21:8, RSV).

"For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil" (Eccl 12:14, NIV). 

Sin and evil will be removed forever.

“Then Death and Hades [symbolic] were thrown into the lake of fire [death will never occur again]. This is the second death, the lake of fire; and if any one’s name was not found written in the book of life [the wicked (Rev 3:5)], he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev 20:14,15, RSV).

And Christ will be vindicated before the universe.

"After these things I heard a loud voice of a great multitude in Heaven, saying, "Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power to the Lord our God! For true and righteous are His judgments..." (Rev 19:1,2, NKJV).





GETTING THE MILLENNIUM RIGHT

Yes, because there is clearly no millennium period on planet Earth.

A summary of this article appears at the end.

Also see the diagram that's contained in the link: Where Are They.
This link being at the end of this article too.


Firstly, Christ returns; this being His second coming (and the promised resurrection).

And the reason for His return (and the promised resurrection)?

“And all these [faithful Bible heroes of all the ages], though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised [eternal life, immortality], since God had provided something better [much fairer] for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect [immortal. They will have to wait for His return and the resurrection]”
(Heb 11:39,40, ESV).

" 'Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with Me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done' " (Rev 22:12, NIV).

In other words, no one goes to Heaven until Christ returns. All remain in their graves or wherever they are.
Thus:

“ ‘In My Father's house [in Heaven] are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you [referring to when Christ ascended to Heaven after the cross]. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back [the Second Coming] and [then] take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am [in Heaven]’ ”
(John 14:2,3, NIV).

“For the Lord Himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel’s call and with the sound of God’s trumpet, will descend from heaven [at His Second Coming], and [then] the dead in Christ will rise [upwards to heaven] first [out of fairness]. Then we who are alive [the righteous still living at the time of Christ’s second coming], who are left [because the dead at that time are already rising upward], will be caught up in the clouds together with them [the righteous dead] to meet the Lord in the air [the Holy Christ does not touch the defiled earth]; and so we will be with the Lord [are then taken to heaven (Rev 20:6)] forever [meaning, we'll never be parted from Him again]” (1 Thess 4:16,17).

The texts above clearly show that at Christ's second coming the saved are taken up in the air in order to make their way to Heaven, and the text after the following one shows that they will be there for a thousand years.

As for the wicked at Christ's second coming,

" 'But on the day that Lot left Sodom, it rained fire and sulfur from Heaven and destroyed all of them -- it will be like that on the day the Son of Man is revealed [the second coning]" (Luke 17:29,30).

So,

“Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection [at the Second Coming]! Over such the second death [the final destruction of the wicked at the end of the millennium] has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years [If they've gone up to Heaven, it's clear that they'll be there for that period of time]” (Rev 20:6, ESV).

During the millennium the saved will be able to review Heaven's record books to see why Christ accepted
some and rejected others. This is what the following texts are all about.

"Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?...Do you not know that we shall judge [wicked] angels?..."
(1 Cor 6:2-3, NKJV).

Via this confirming inspection, no doubts will be left in any mind. When the wicked receive their final punishment it will be recognised by all that their punishment is deserved and that God is just.

"After these things I heard a loud voice of a great multitude in Heaven, saying, "Alleluia! Salvation and glory and
honor and power to the Lord our God! For true and righteous are His judgments..." (Rev 19:1,2, NKJV).

So what is the second resurrection and second death that's talked about above?

“ ‘And I have the same hope in God as these men, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous [at the Second Coming] and the wicked [at the end of the millennium]’ ” (Acts 24:15, NIV).

The following text (which is parenthetical, by the way) shows that the wicked struck down at Christ's coming will be resurrected at the end of the millennium to face their judgment. This is the second resurrection and death.

“The rest of the dead [the wicked dead struck down at Christ’s Second Coming (2 Thess 1:7,8)] did not come to life again until the thousand years were ended [the second resurrection]...” (Rev 20:5, RSV).

“ ‘Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming [the Second Coming] when all who are in the tombs will hear His [Christ’s] voice and come forth, those who have done good, to the resurrection of life [the Second Coming], and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of Judgment [the second death and hence the lake of fire]’ ”
(John 5:28,29, RSV).

“ ‘But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the polluted, as for the murderers, fornicators, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their lot shall be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death’ ” (Rev 21:8, RSV).

So where has Satan been all this time?

“And when the thousand years are ended, Satan [who was clearly confined, alive, along with his angels, to the depopulated desolate earth] will be loosed from his prison [to face the ‘second death’ (Rev 21:8)]” (Rev 20:7, RSV).

What happens once Satan is "loosed from his prison"?

“Then I saw a new [renewed] heaven and a new [renewed] earth...And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem [the one that the wicked tried to attack (Rev 20:9,10)], coming down out of heaven from God...And I heard a great voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling of God is with men. He will dwell with them [on the renewed earth], and they shall be His people...He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall their be mourning nor crying nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away’ ” (Rev 21:1-4, RSV).

“And they [the resurrected wicked, Satan and his angels (Rev 20:8)] marched [preparing to attack] up over the broad earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city [the descending New Jerusalem containing the saints and Christ (Rev 21:1-3)]; but fire came down from heaven and consumed them [the ‘second death’ (Rev 21:8)], And the devil who had deceived them [the wicked] was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet were [the End-time world wide persecuting power], and they will be tormented day and night for ever and ever [metaphoric symbolism denoting complete destruction]” (Rev 20:9,10, RSV).

“ ‘But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the polluted, as for murderers, fornicators, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their lot shall be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death’ ” (Rev 21:8, RSV).

Now look at this text:

"Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire,
prepared for the devil and his angels" (Matt, 25:41, KJV).

According to Scripture, as can be seen above, the lake of fire and brimstone (Hell to many) has been prepared for Satan and his angels, not for us.
 However, given that man fell through disobedience, the lake of fire is now also reserved for those who don't repent and turn from their old ways.
So, if Hell currently exists as most seem to believe, surely Satan would already be there, but Scripture says that he’s prowling around like a roaring lion seeking someone [us] to devour (1 Peter 5:8). One would hardly be prowling around in Hell (if there was such a place) like a roaring lion but more likely jumping about like a cat on a scorching hot tin roof in summer time, to say the least. In other words, he would far too preoccupied with trying to save his own skin (fat chance) to go looking for victims.
And another point: Those he's seeking to devour would hardly be in Hell either, but he clearly wanting them to be there.




Also check out the following links:

 Where Are They?
(which includes a diagram regarding the millennium)

 What Rapture?

and

No One Burns Forever

2.  Of Course There's A Judgment!

Yes, such easy to deduce, for how could there not be a time of judgment before Christ’s return?
Let alone the fact that Scripture conveys so, and which far too late many scoffers will soon learn.
Yes, “The hour of His judgment has come!” the book of Revelation shouts, it warning of this phase,
Which all the evidence suggests is this time we’re living in-cum-these current and final days.

So should Christians be concerned? Too right! For God didn’t say, “I’m granting you grace so you can sin,”
For He hates sin, such being why He died on Calvary, and why He doesn’t want sin reigning within.
In other words, deliberate sinning must go, Christians no longer acting rebelliously,
But rather, willingly walking in accordance with His will-cum-walking obediently.

The truth is, that the Church is full of hypocrites-cum-those who’re not truly converted, sadly,
Hence why God (who knows our true condition), will make a judgment call, such being a necessity,
For He must be seen to be the God of justice that He is, He not condoning sin via grace,
Which He would be doing if He let willing sinners into Heaven, their charade a disgrace.

And hence why the Bible tells us how we’re to live in order to please God and bring Him glory,
We thus becoming more like Him rather than remaining more like our age old adversary.
And our Christ-like-ness and willing conformity showing our genuineness and gratitude,
Unlike those who’re choosing to go contrary to God’s wishes, and yet saved, oft wrongly conclude.

Well, such they’ll discover when Christ separates the sheep from the goats at His coming, which He will,
And many of those goats being deluded Christians, who, unwittingly, prophecy will fulfil.
And hence why we’re told that God will say, “Depart from Me,” to such Christians, His grace hardly for them,
For though professing Christianity, they still continue to do what the Scriptures condemn.

And hence why there’s definitely a time of judgment (God aware of every secret thing), and
He passing judgment, though it’s really us who determine our fate, something we need to understand,
For Scripture is clear as to what God desires, and why we’re told not to play with our salvation,
As Christ’s robe of righteousness only covers the repentant-cum-reformed, not imitation.

Yes, it’s all very well to profess Christianity, but if the evidence doesn't show,
We’re simply all talk, just in it for selfish reasons, and why God will have no choice but to say, “No.”
Otherwise, some judge He’d be, He spurning non-believers, yet, saving Christian hypocrites,
And He thus open to being accused of having His favourites, hence why in judgment He now sits.

And why we can’t say who’s in Heaven, like is oft said at funerals, not that folk are up there yet,
For God’s Word states that all the saved of the ages will be taken up together, don’t forget.
But as to who will or won’t be in Heaven, that’s for God to decide, and not for us to say,
Bearing in mind that many Christians aren’t near as Christ-like as that outward picture they convey.

How Satan must laugh at those presumptuous statements, like, “My Johnny’s in Heaven now,” such untrue,
For Scripture’s clear that no one goes anywhere at death, hence that coming resurrection that’s due.
And which makes sense given God’s judgment, and that He said He’s rewarding the saved at His coming,
Whereupon they’ll also receive their crowns, and why Scripture’s depths, all should more thoroughly be plumbing.

By Lance Landall


“Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth. He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come. Worship Him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water’ ” (Rev 14:6,7, NIV).

For Christ to be bringing His reward with Him, His judgment clearly has to occur beforehand, and the signs of the times show that His coming is very near.

“As I watched, thrones were set in place [a symbolic representation of the great final trial, fixing the destinies of men and of nations, now in process]...The court sat in judgment, and the books were opened [the Bible according to whose standard men are judged (the Ten Commandments – James 2:12); the book of death containing the record of the deeds of the unrepentant (Rev 20:12,15; Eccl 12:14; 2 Cor 5:10); the book of remembrance containing the record of the good deeds of the saints (Mal 3:16); and the book of life containing the names of the saved, those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Saviour (Rev 3:5)]” (Dan 7:9,10).

“And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life [containing the names of the saved]. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books [a written record of the sinful deeds of the unrepentant]” (Rev 20:12, NKJV).

“ ‘When the Son of Man comes in His glory [at the second coming]...He will [then] separate the people one from
another as a shepherd separates the sheep [righteous] from the goats [the wicked]’ ” (Matt 25:31,32, NIV).
Note also Matt 13:24-30; 2 Thess 1:7,8.

“ ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth [lukewarm professors of religion are a continual weight to those who would be faithful followers of Jesus, and are a stumbling block to unbelievers]’ ”
(Rev 3:15,16, NIV).

"Do you not know that wrongdoers will not enter the kingdom of God?..." (1 Cor 6:9).

“For if we go on sinning deliberately [lawlessness] after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains
a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment…[salvation can not be divorced from obedience, obedience links faith and works]” (Heb 10:26,27, ESV).

“ ‘Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of
my Father who is in heaven [keeps the Ten Commandments]’ ” (Matt 7:21, ESV).

“Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish [uphold] the law [to repeal
the Ten Commandments would be to abolish morality itself]” (Rom 3:31, NKJV).

“And all these [faithful Bible heroes of all the ages], though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised [eternal life, immortality], since God had provided something better [much fairer] for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect [immortal. They will have to wait]” (Heb 11:39,40, ESV).

"Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day [His second coming] — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing" (2 Tim 4:8, NIV).

3.  Yes, A Judgment Does Take Place

The Bible informs us about a solemn Judgment that takes place,
It stating that before His return, Christ will judge the human race.
Therefore, we’re warned in Revelation that this Judgment has begun,
So clearly, each one’s record is being examined by Christ the Son.

Yes, all throughout the Word of God many references are made
To this period of Judgment where every person’s life will be weighed.
Hence why a court room's depicted where both the Father and the Son
Their just and careful scrutiny up in Heaven have now begun.

Paul warned a Roman governor who trembled at the very thought
Of this coming time of Judgment that's set in a heavenly court.
And those serious wheels of heavenly justice began to turn
Sometime after our Saviour's ascension, we, via Paul’s warning learn.

You see, God has a standard that He expects all to uphold,
And that such is His Ten Commandments, we, in the Scriptures are told.
The Scriptures call sin “lawlessness,” — therefore, to break God’s Law is sin,
And wilful sin will just void His grace, as rebellion’s still within.

The Bible says that righteousness and justice are the “foundation”
Of that Holy realm of our God from which He rules all creation.
For our God knows that rules are needed, as should lawlessness prevail,
Anarchy would soon rule the day, and His government thereby fail.

Thus, God’s Law is what we are judged by, for though we are saved by grace,
Grace is hardly a substitute for obedience’s rightful place.
And therefore, a Judgment must occur if justice is to be done,
For why should wilful sinning be overlooked by Jesus the Son?

Though our Saviour knows that only grace can release us from our plight,
He did not intend His grace let us off from doing what is right.
It was never our God’s intention that His grace should cover sin,
But that through His enabling, victory over sin we would win.

Thus, those doing their best to walk rightly, are covered by God’s grace,
But if they choose to walk wrongly, they will then simply grace displace.
You see, grace isn’t where it ends — rather, grace is the beginning,
For God hates “lawlessness,” and says, do not wilfully keep sinning.

Yes, God’s mercy freely given is hardly for pardoning sin,
But just those repentant sinners no longer wanting sin within.
God accepts us where we are, but there, gives us no excuse to stay,
Hence why it is that we’re judged by that Law that He said to “obey.”

Yes, despite God’s mercy and grace, a Judgment still has to take place,
But only those ones who are rebelling its condemnation face.
For all who are walking rightly, and motivated from the heart,
Are promised that if they are faithful, immortal life they’ll soon start.

Thus, God’s Judgment isn’t an issue for those who truly love the Lord,
For they know that their faithfulness He has promised He will reward.
But God’s Judgment is an issue for those who're not covered by His grace,
For tragically, eternal death they will shortly have to face.

Say, what about the non-Christian who of all this isn’t aware?
Well, Romans chapter two suggests that they won’t have a need to fear,
That is, provided that they're walking with a conscience that is clear,
And a heart that bears testimony that God’s Spirit is living there.

By Lance Landall


“Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness” (1 John 3:4, NASB).

“So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty [the Ten Commandments. Here’s the key: In the context of salvation (Justification – right standing before God), law keeping is of no avail, but in the context of Christian conduct Sanctification – right living before God), God’s law has value and validity]” (James 2:12, NASB).

“Then the temple [sanctuary] of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant [the depository of the Ten Commandments (1 Kings 8:9)] was seen in His temple [this argues eloquently of the Ten Commandments ‘centrality’ in earth’s final hours]...” (Rev 11:19, NKJV). Note Heb 9:4,24; 7:25.

4.  A Melancholy Millennium

Dear Christian, surely as excited about Heaven as I, to which we’ll go when Christ returns
(Not prior), and which Scripture states, hence those mansions — yes, “I’ll come again,” Christ said, for which He yearns.
We’ll stay for a millennium, then we'll return to the renewed Earth, which the Scriptures also state,
And lest you think that millennium's something to do with time here, let me elaborate:

We’re told that at the end of the thousand years, all the saints, Jesus and the New Jerusalem,
Descend to Earth, and as they do, Satan and the resurrected wicked try to attack them.
It’s there in black and white, and why that millennium's clearly spent in Heaven; the question, “Why?”
And why here, an attempt at answering that very interesting question, I've sought to try.

The key to it all is, that God’s Word never says there won’t be tears in Heaven — yes, that's correct,
Just that there won’t be tears on the renewed Earth, which frankly, makes sense, and why on such lets reflect.
So why might there be tears in Heaven? I suspect the millennium's a healing time of sorts,
Hence my poem's title, A Melancholy Millennium, joy mixed with sadness; now more thoughts:

When we get to Heaven, we’ll no doubt have many questions we’d like answers to, naturally,
And think of how many saints there'll be, and that time that's needed, 'cause healing takes time, you see,
Even in Heaven, 'cause were upsetting memories erased straight away, we'd be like robots,
Coldly shutting the door on those denied Heaven (loved ones?), thus no closure, no connecting of dots.

'Cause wouldn’t you want to know why a loved one wasn’t there, or someone else who you thought would be,
And wouldn’t you want to know why things happened in your life, or theirs, and about Earth’s history?
Of course you would, and I suspect there’d be no end to questions, until all were answered — and say,
Wouldn’t God want us to see why He’d acted as He had regarding it all? Transparency His way,

And then the resurrection of the wicked.

With God shown to be just, there’d be no doubts left in one’s mind, 'cause we aren’t robots, and won’t be there,
Old scenes passing before our eyes as we're shown this or that, hence tears that would flow, our angel near,
That one who lovingly shadowed us throughout our life, even spared us at times, thankfully,
Which in Heaven will be revealed — yes, joy and sadness mingling for some time, but necessary.

Come the descending of the saints to Earth, with the past behind and dealt with, there'll be that attack,
Which comes from Earth-bound Satan, and the wicked who’ve been resurrected, of which their movements Christ keeps tract.
But powerless they are against Christ’s consuming fire — the second death — which annihilates,
Leaving the saints to inhabit the renewed Earth with Christ, free of death, pain, tears, what aggravates.

But not before that needed millennium, a time in which we’ll discover, learn, unlearn and grow,
'Cause such won't stop with Heaven, we not just sitting 'round all day playing harps, as some might think so.
Thus just like Adam and Eve developed, matured, grew to a greater understanding surely,
So we, the only instant changes being that pre-Fall nature, perfect bodies, immortality.

A melancholy millennium? Well, in a manner of speaking.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded on 23 October 2022.

For further on this subject, I would recommend that you also check out
the orange box titled What Rapture?





“And all these [faithful Bible heroes of all the ages], though commended through their faith, did not receive
what was promised [eternal life, immortality], since God had provided something better [much fairer] for us,
that apart from us they should not be made perfect [immortal. They will have to wait]” (Heb 11:39,40, ESV).

5.  Will Your Folly Follow You To Heaven?

We’ll all be rewarded together, God’s Word says, so no one’s in Heaven yet,
But oh, when we get there, what unfortunate scenes many of us will have set.
For example:
Uriah the Hittite looking for his wife, Bathsheba, unaware of ill,
And David having some explaining to do, ’cause Uriah he sought to kill.

Lust, covetousness, stealing, adultery, and then murder — yes, sin after sin,
And David reaping the consequences that soon will reach as far as Heaven.
Uriah coming David’s way — yes, that loyal soldier of his, trustworthy,
And yet, how David betrayed him, and Bathsheba caught in the middle, sadly.

Yes, the consequences of actions on Earth having to be faced in Heaven,
That millennium period where there will be tears, many minus their kin.
We only tear-free come the renewed Earth, the ending of the millennium,
And why as far as David goes, saved but solemn, I wouldn’t like to be him.

And where might Bathsheba be, and how might she be feeling? Christ holding her hand,
His trembling child full of mixed emotions — yes, her second marriage hardly planned.
She having been intimate with both, and David a good man despite it all,
His marrying her preventing her death, and God’s grace but a merciful shawl.

So, who might come looking for you? Their joy turning to horror, perhaps. Oh dear,
Not that there’ll be fisticuffs in Heaven, it such a different atmosphere.
And we having become more Christ-like, but not beyond feeling pangs of pain, no doubt,
Healing taking time, hence that millennium; reality what God’s about.

No, we not suddenly made emotionless robots, and Heaven our chance to see
Why some were saved and some were not saved, and more types of Bathshebas there’ll be.
Hence those record books, those sad encounters, but Christ taking care of it all, so,
Don’t despair, but meantime minding how you go, ’cause in time, any ill may show.

Yes, we having some explaining to do, “sorry” not an eraser, you see,
And why some things may have to be faced even in Heaven, and so they should be.
But with time, those sad things growing dimmer, they put behind, Christ our life and joy,
All else coming second, and, repentance and forgiveness walking hand in hand,

Then peace that nothing will destroy.

But beforehand, Uriah coming David’s way, his face beaming with joy, ’till,
David possibly falls at his feet, and what a story he will have to tell.
Imagine it! Shock, horror. Yes, tears on both sides, which our Saviour foresaw, and,
A healing time in Heaven planned, lest tears mar the renewed Earth, our promised land.

God is good, God is wise, He knowing our folly might follow us to Heaven,
And providing for such, all traces of sin removed after the millennium.
Hence why then there’ll be no more tears, Satan and sin gone forever; praise the Lamb!
He who’ll soon be vindicated — the way, the truth, and the life — the great I AM.

And Uriah knowing that for David to be in Heaven He must have changed,
Contritely fallen at the feet of Jesus too, who this period arranged.
And there will stand Bathsheba, a dilemma that only God can sort, and will,
But not before that heart wrenching scene, it the product of David’s earthly ill.

And what if Uriah spots Bathsheba first? She the love of his earthly life,
Who may be reluctant to run to him, having become another man’s wife.
Or perhaps the three of them spotting each other at the same time, as could be,
And perhaps Uriah the only one rushing, each heart racing differently.

Yes, all three saved, and all three rejoicing in that, but their joy tinged with sorrow,
Hence why we can’t just think of today, but how today might affect tomorrow.
And David’s confession both embarrassing and shameful, tough on Bathsheba,
And all because of a lustful act that even heavenly joy will soon mar.

Yes, I think we’re going to be shocked by what’s revealed in Heaven; such a must,
Christ wanting each i dotted and each t crossed, no secrets come that “dust to dust.”
Hence those record books I mentioned, those David and Bathsheba encounters, say,
Lest Jesus be accused of being unfair, and that “do the right thing” we may.

So, it’s not just here that we should put things right, but in Heaven too, come the need,
For why should David’s sin be hidden from Uriah? It such an awful deed.
And after all, questions will be asked, and who’s her man, David or Uriah?
So mind how you go now, don’t listen to that Liar who’s destined for fire.

By Lance Landall

6.  Divine Transparency

God could have destroyed both Lucifer and Adam and his wife right there and then;
In other words, the moment they rebelled, but such being more the way of men.
Rather, God has made Himself open to our scrutiny so that we may see
That everything He does is just and fair, and therefore not done in secrecy.

Yes, God believes in accountability, and for judges too, and thereby,
We able to go through Heaven’s books when up there, which will answer any “Why?”
The “dead in Christ” raised at His second coming, all the saints judging the world;
Well, so to speak, for there, God’s rightness in punishing the wicked is beheld,

By us, as we go through the records with Jesus.

So,

Come the end of the millennium, the wicked dead are raised to face their fate,
Justice having been seen to be done; divine transparency prepared to wait.
However, the cases of all having been examined before Christ’s return,
Hence the saved (dead and living) taken to Heaven, where of God’s fairness they soon learn.

And so, Christ currently going through the records of all, and with His angels,
That they too may see His fairness and reasons, He putting to rest alarm bells
Given that those angels have heard Satan’s nasty accusations against us,
But our repentance and turning from wrong saving us via the blood of Jesus.

And so, judgment occurring before Christ’s return and continuing after,
The latter during the millennium, the wicked silent, no talk or laughter.
“And the dead were judged.”
And then, at the end of the millennium, the final phase, their rightful end,
Such the outcome of divine transparency, a just, fair and well thought-out blend.

And meantime God allowing the wicked their time in the sun, it soon to end,
Many having a taste of Heaven on Earth, but their ways not choosing to mend.
And God knowing their sad, fiery future, and why we should mind any envy,
Because now is all they’ll be getting, they having forfeited eternity.

And so, to summarise,

All are judged beforehand, hence why Christ is bringing His reward or penalty,
The wicked struck dead, the saved taken to Heaven, given immortality.
The wicked remaining on Earth ’till the millennium’s end, and then raised,
Their records having been checked, God seen to be just — and via fire, their life erased —

The New Jerusalem descending with Christ and saint — oh, what a picture that paints!

By Lance Landall

7.  Prove Me Wrong

(and it wouldn’t make any sense)

God can’t afford to not be meticulous given the great controversy,
Hence Heaven’s records, our every thought, word and action there for Christ to see.
And why right now He’s going through those books, angels having recorded it all,
And I meaning, right from Lucifer’s accusations and Adam and Eve’s fall.

And this why Christ will be bringing His reward or penalty with Him, you see,
And hence that prior investigation, such being all part of His mercy.
For God’s fair and transparent, hence why angels are privy to this affair, where
Everyone’s case is decided before our Saviour-cum-Judge will appear.

Yes, His grace no licence to sin, His Law not faulty, and it directing us,
So that we too might honour the Father by obedience, as did Jesus.
And thus we not continuing in sin, but we growing more like Christ each day,
So that we may hate sin too, for it was sin that brought about death and decay.

And midst all this, the inhabitants of Heaven, and indeed the universe,
Observing how God is dealing with it all, for our Saviour does not coerce,
But rather (and we not being robots), He grants us all the freedom to choose,
Eternal life or death, and hence why of some injustice, God, none can accuse.

Yes, all thereby seeing how loving, longsuffering and merciful He is,
And that need of His Law, He wanting it in our heart, just as it is in His.
It a reflection of His character, hardly abolished by grace, but still
Worthy of keeping, and why we’re told that those who’re saved are those who do His will.

And come that millennium we’ll spend in Heaven, beginning at Christ’s return,
All will be laid bare for inspection, and why most didn’t make it, we will learn.
And amongst them a loved one, perhaps, our questions answered via the record books,
For oh dear, so many have the appearance of a saint when they’re really crooks.

And so too will be seen the record of fallen angels, their thoughts, words and deeds,
Their destruction assured, and hence why no one on their behalf intercedes.
But nevertheless, everything laid bare for inspection, nothing withheld,
And thereby, friend, rightful judgment, punishment, and God’s fairness being beheld.

And via such, all seeing how everything that Satan has said is a lie,
His kingdom a failure, his accusations unfounded, God’s Law not high and dry.
Yes, all having had that behind the scenes access to the great controversy,
And free-will continuing to be, but none rebelling after what they know,

And more so given those scars on Christ’s hands and feet that’ll always be on show.

And then, Jesus dealing with the wicked, the millennium over, and they,
Brought to life having been struck dead at His coming, and why still on Earth they lay.
The saints free of any doubts, the New Jerusalem descending, and then fire,
It consuming the wicked, Satan and his cohorts, they existing no more,

Goodbye Liar!

All having seen why the devil and the wicked are deserving of that fire,
And the saints faith in Christ having not been in vain, they faithful down to the wire,
And having learnt the true causes behind many things, such silencing each, “Why?”
And hence that coming, “Worthy is the lamb that was slain!” joyous and grateful cry.

By Lance Landall

8.  Does God Bury Our Sins?

Such is indeed an interesting question: Does God bury our sins once we’ve been forgiven,
For such is what Scripture says, doesn't it? He remembering them no more, if we’re genuine.
Well, such is only true in a sense-cum-in its context, as God is speaking figuratively,
For should we continue to wilfully sin, or spurn Him, such knowledge would still be necessary.

You see, God’s Word makes two things very clear: That there is a time when the life of all will be weighed,
And that a record of our thoughts, words and deeds is kept in Heaven, for God should still be obeyed.
Yes, even though forgiven, God’s grace hardly covers rebellion-cum-continued wilful sin,
For such is what saw Jesus crucified — and don’t forget, sin being of satanic origin.

Hence why we should ask God’s forgiveness every day, and indeed the very moment that we sin,
We conscious of our erring, though not setting out to sin, for what Christian wants Satan to win?
And why those who’re attempting to walk in accordance with God’s will (though in the Spirit’s power),
And who’re daily on their knees, contrite of heart and deep in the Word, needn’t fear God’s judgment hour.

The truth is, that many Christians aren’t true Christians — these not my words but God’s, Scripture very clear —
And then there’s those false prophets and messiahs, all why there must be a judgment sometime, somewhere.
For only the genuine and faithful inherit Heaven — this being the words of God again —
Unlike that lie that says all we have to do is accept God’s grace, nothing more; mere words of men.

For “Take up your cross and follow me,” Christ says, “Come out of the world and leave the old life behind,”
And why He said to the adulterous woman, “Go and sin no more,” all why sin we must mind.
Yes, we not to carry on as before, lest we shame our Lord or create any stumbling block,
And why we’ve been told to take our walk very seriously, remembering that ticking clock.

And yes, why we’re told to seek out the truth, and not embrace or somehow propagate heresy,
And why we’re not to seek those who please itchy ears and create a false sense of security.
And why we mustn’t remain babes, but become mature in our understanding and example,
For such will not only prove to be to our benefit, and that of others, but is God’s will.

So how will you fare, dear Christian, come God’s inspection of your record before His soon return?
He thereby noting whether your thoughts, words and deeds — eternal life or death — effectively earn.
No! Not because works save, but because they declare whether you’re a fraud or not, some hypocrite,
And hence why “By their fruits you’ll know them,” and why God in judgment-cum-fairness and justice must sit.

By Lance Landall

9.  Unconditional Love?

Unconditional love is a phrase that we’ve all probably used at some time,
Such no doubt more prevalent where poets wax lyrical via rhythm and rhyme.
Folk speaking of a love without conditions, but what kind of love would that be?
And there’re those who’d say, “Weak, reckless and irresponsible, enter anarchy.”

Yes, we've coined the phrase “unconditional love,” such not even in the Bible,
And in fact, Scripture talking about God’s Law and boundaries, how He’ll deal with ill.
Yes, it one thing for a God of love to love us despite our warts and failures, but,
Love must deal with evil, and there came a time when the door to Noah’s ark was shut.

So, everlasting love? Yes. Boundless love? Yes. Unconditional love? Not really.

But God aside — you possibly an atheist — one thing’s painfully clear today,
And that is, that where there is spousal abuse, too many women are seen to stay.
And why it’s so that where such women still love their man, they should hardly stick around,
But love him from a distance until he mends his ways, knows a love more fair and sound.

Thus one assumes that unconditional love wouldn’t shun the person but their ill,
Though it surely aware that certain measures are oft needed, hence that sage “until.”
For how would anyone learn if such a love was just a doormat for dirty feet,
Rather than a sure friend, gracious king still entitled to his throne, dispensing seat,

Where love, sense and justice would surely meet.

Thus it all about context, and the context having to be warts and all, clearly,
Someone standing by us through it all, but they hardly acting irresponsibly.
Yes, our IQ, background, faults and failings immaterial, pushed to one side,
But unconditional love being a prudent friend in whom one could trust and confide.

Though to be honest, the phrase “unconditional love” is rather misleading, and
Why what is surely meant by such a no conditions phrase folk need to understand.
Hence my attempt to throw some light, love not giving folk an excuse to snooze or laze,
Nor some rebellious licence, and why “unconditional love” isn’t the wisest phrase.

So yes, such a love would accept people where it found them, warts and all, so to speak,
Rank, race, looks and so on not getting in its way, but such love not silly or weak.
And this being why such love would only be unconditional in a certain sense,
It still a believer in laws and boundaries and not something that sat on the fence.

In other words,

It not tolerating anything and everything, but loving regardless, and,
Not giving up on folk because of failure, ways that might be hard to understand.
Thus unconditional love being constant, it loving though not always liking, and,
Still chastising where necessary, hugs and discipline thus going hand in hand.

Now back to those battered women,

Who, though they may still love their man, shouldn’t stick around, but tell him to change his ways,
Of which I’m sure you’d agree, for here, a no conditions love would surely amaze.
Yes, “because she’d be a fool to expose herself to more abuse,” I hear you say,
And likewise: God a fool to not have rules and still save those who chose to disobey.

Unfortunately,

And this, despite there being copious biblical evidence to the contrary,
Why the humanistic phrase “unconditional love” has been deceiving many.
They thinking that they can continue to deliberately sin and still be saved,
And thus this how that perilous path to their eternal ruin-cum-loss is being paved.

And this, whether one’s a Christian or not, why the wrong behaviour of so many
Is simply being winked at, excused or tolerated when it really shouldn’t be.
And no wonder,
For an “unconditional love” is a love free of conditions, obviously,
And why those who choose to use this phrase should think again, or clarify it, clearly.

Yes, it’s so easy to parrot what is oft or commonly said, as if it’s right,
Some things sounding good and innocent ’till one grabs hold of a torch that throws more light.
And so it is here, and why there’s a time and place for tough love, for love would be dumb
If via the likes of “unconditional love,” it far too far swung the pendulum.

By Lance Landall


"Doublethink means the power of holding two contradictory beliefs in one's mind simultaneously,
and accepting both of them."
George Orwell (1903-1950)


“ ‘Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of Heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father who is in Heaven,' ” (Matt 7:21, NIV).

"Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' "And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you, depart from Me,
YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS' (Matt 7:22,23, NASB).

"So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth" (Rev 3:16, NASB).

“For if we go on sinning deliberately [lawlessness] after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains
a sacrifice for sins [we void God's grace], but a fearful expectation of judgment…” (Heb 10:26,27, ESV).

"God is a just God, and God is angry with the wicked every day" (Ps 7:11, NKJV).

"The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion" (Ps 11:5, NIV).


"Unconditional love comes from the Spirit World."
Bradley E. Gosselin, "Source of Love: An inspired trance message, from a Spirit Helper,"
The National Spiritualist Summit, 24 February 2002.





This poem follows on from my poem "Unconditional Love?"

10.  God's Hate

Where men are so evil that they’ve become as if sin itself, enter God’s hate,
Because God hates sin, and why as a consequence, there’s that needed judgment date;
For the forbearance that God exercises toward the wicked, out of love,
Only seems to embolden them in transgression, they scoffing at God above.

Though God loves us despite our fallen condition, even rebelliousness, say,
There comes a time when He must make a judgment call, and the life of each man weigh.
All why the lovers of violence and debauchery are sealing their fate,
Or have sealed their fate — for the mercy of God, such folk sorely test-cum-frustrate.

Yes,

Because of His nature, God naturally finds evil hateful, and therefore,
It’s existence in men is loathsome to Him, and given the cost that He bore.
Hence why God’s Word expresses Divine contempt for rebellion — hence enmity,
In other words, a positive hatred, and man’s cup full of iniquity.

And thus it goes,

From abhorring the action to abhorring the one who’s committing the ill,
(The abomination), hence the pre-cross global flood, God having had His fill.
And why when men become as if sin itself, continually turning to ill,
They kindle God’s wrath, God’s hate — and eventually, eternity farewell.

In summary, God doesn't hate anyone who’s redeemable, just the sin,
But a time can come where God’s hate of sin is aimed at the sinner, dead within.
Those, who, just like the ones who were destroyed by the flood, are beyond redeeming,
They unrepentant and evil to the core, and thus still wickedly scheming.

However,

In His Word, God’s hate is expressed in human language, and might not seem to gel,
Sin and sinner being considered identical, and thus one feeling a chill.
But like anything, it all comes down to context and understanding, and why
We need to study God’s Word very carefully, and some commonsense apply.

By Lance Landall


"Because of all their wickedness in Gilgal, I hated them there. Because of their sinful deeds, I will drive them
out of my house. I will no longer love them; all their leaders are rebellious" (Hosea 9:15, NIV).

"They, too, will drink the wine of God's fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will
be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb" (Rev 14:10, NIV).

"These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren." (Prov 6:16-18, KJV)


Also note the texts that are under the poem just above this one.

11.  Don't Want To Know About The Plagues?

Revelation chapters fifteen and sixteen mention seven last plagues — and they,
The product of God’s wrath, each poured out just prior to Christ’s return-cum-one soon day.
This in line with other angels in chapter fourteen who warn humanity:
“Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgement has come,” you see,

But here, these warnings coming via God’s Word, not angels who suddenly appear.

Well, we’ve nothing to fear unless we’re still rebelling — oh, and there’s one more thing —
If we foolishly follow the coming “beast” power thus dancing to its string.
No, we won’t be raptured beforehand, all why the saints are told to hang in there,
For though not spared from persecution, those coming plagues aren’t something that they’ll share.

And as far as those who won’t be spared from God’s wrath, they’ll have had ample warning,
And thus when the plagues begin to fall, the proof of God’s love finally dawning.
Yes, God having tried to spare them from such, but the rebellious having ignored Him,
And thus they suffering the cost, Earth’s cup of iniquity filled to the brim...

Much like in the days of Moses, seven plagues having fallen just like God said,
He wanting His people freed from oppression and bondage, and the same ahead.
Though this time God not dealing with a Pharaoh but a modern equivalent,
Another con who acts like he’s God on Earth ’till Christ brings an end to his stint.

Yes, it’s all there in the book of Revelation, God speaking to you and I,
He not wanting any to perish, but we get to choose, though that day is nigh,
As Christ will bring an end to both rebellion and the rebellious, as He should,
For why should any be rewarded with Heaven when they choose wrong over good?

By Lance Landall


"Come out of her, My people [they clearly where they shouldn't be], so that you will not share in her sins,
so that you will not receive any of her plagues"
(Rev 18:4, NIV).

"Then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by
the appearance of His coming; that is, the one whose coming is in accord with the activity of Satan, with all power
and signs and false wonders, and with all the deception of wickedness for those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth so as to be saved" (2 Thess 2:8-10, NASB).

“For it is impossible to restore again to repentance those who have once been enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, since on their own they are crucifying again the Son of God and are holding Him up to contempt” (Heb 6:4-6). Note Matt 12:31,32.

12.  The Hour Of His Judgment Has Come

God’s forbearance has been great, more so when we think of the insults to His Law,
Men declaring it abrogated, and the Bible not authentic — the gall!
But there comes a time when divine patience is exhausted, this seen in the past,
Ancient Israel a prime example, hence why that theocracy didn't last.

Therefore, should we be surprised over a sudden unexpected change in the
Dealings of God with the hell-bent inhabitants of this fallen world? Hardly.
And why the judgments of God are sure to follow — yes, He having warned us too,
Hence that removing of His restraining hand, which shows that Earth’s end is in view.

Yes,

“The hour of His Judgment has come!”, the book of Revelation thunders, and so,
We surely taking notice, getting our lives in order, lest it be, “Oh no!”
And we to point men to those nobler things that have largely been lost sight of, and,
Boldly sound the alarm, for soon the gates will be closed to the promised land.

By Lance Landall


"...Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come..." (Rev 14:7, NKJV).

"For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be
the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" (1 Peter 4:17, NASB).

13.  Regarding God's Judgment

My dear friend, will tomorrow come for you, will you enjoy another day,
And if your life were to end now, what would your record up in Heaven say?
Would it be eternal life or destruction that you would soon discover,
And might you falsely be thinking that grace, your neglected wrongs will cover?

Remembered wrongs, I’m referring to here, or what God may choose to point out;
In other words, things that it’s possible for you to do something about.
For where you might’ve forgotten, or are unable, God’s grace will cover you,
But what His grace will not cover, is you refusing to do what is due.

Sadly, such a very silly risk is taken by Christians everywhere,
They foolishly treating each day as though they have many more days to spare;
And hence how so many lose their lives before they have put those wrong things right;
Oh, what could be the price that these folk pay for such a thoughtless oversight?

No, we simply can’t afford to play with grace, this life of ours or others,
For the justice embedded in God’s Law, such wrong behaviour soon uncovers.
Therefore, every day we need to live as though each day were our very last,
Putting right any wrong we do, and even certain wrongs within our past.

We thinking that God will overlook any of those wrong things that we do,
Is presumption at its best, which will simply lead to what we’re bound to rue.
For via the wise and Holy Word of God, we’ve been given ample warning,
And that being: That we shouldn’t let God’s investigation catch us yawning.

The devil’s like a roaring lion, for he knows that his time is very short,
And hence why he’s seriously upset with those who’re warning, “Don’t get caught!”
Therefore, he cruelly makes God’s judgment scene appear invalid or benign,
And all those ones who are warning of it, appear as if they're out of line.

Though warnings about God’s Judgment some once gave in ways that were not best,
Now in the opposite direction the pendulum has swung with flawed zest.
Hence why we’re seeing grace purred, and God’s Judgment scoffed at, ignored or downplayed,
And with it, a lesser focus on His Law, while above, lives still get weighed.

Well, those warnings about God’s Judgment scene, Christians still need to hear today,
And in fact, the need is greater, given that we’re seeing more Christians stray.
Yes, now’s hardly the time to relax, for even more concern is needed,
Given that the evil God warned of has increased and not receded.

Those Christians who’re doing their best to walk rightly, are covered by God’s grace,
But should they rebel and choose to walk wrongly, they’ll simply such grace displace.
For it was never God’s intention that His grace should ever cover sin,
But that through the Spirit’s enabling, the victory over sin we’d win.

Therefore, we should make sure that we’re following God correctly today,
For we could miss out on eternal life should we somehow choose to delay.
Yes, death could catch us unprepared, and therefore, therein lies a pressing need
To much more carefully think about all those things that we were meant to heed.

And hence my plea, will you heed God’s warnings, changing flawed ways and righting wrongs,
And by giving your full allegiance to the One whom it rightly belongs?
And while you’re at it, will you also ask of God that He impart to you
More wisdom and inner strength so that you will clearly know and live what’s true?

My dear friend, someone might be affected by any wrong choice that you make,
And as a result of such, which sad path might it be that they then choose to take?
And could that one even be me, hence why the following I’m asking of you:
Will you please consider how your decision might somehow affect me too?

By Lance Landall


“Since every thing will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be?
You ought to live holy and Godly lives”  (2 Peter 3:11, NIV).

“He that overcometh...I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name
[acknowledge him as a loyal devoted follower] before the Father, and before His angels”  (Rev 3:5,KJV).

“ ‘Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven,
but he who does the will of My Father in heaven ’ ” (Matt 7:21, NKJV).




                           
This poem is an updated one of the one directly above it
but is more related to the righting of wrongs.

14.  Regarding God's Judgment

Seems that many Christians aren’t concerned about righting wrongs, thus wrongly
relying on grace,
'Cause grace hardly covers what one should put right, hence God’s judgment, for such
thinking’s a disgrace.
And the reason why is, 'cause Christians should always seek to right their wrongs,
and have been told to,
'Cause fancy expecting eternity without putting things right, which true Christians would do.

What if we died today? We not having put things right with someone, and not
intending to,
Or perhaps we committed some offence we weren’t going to come clean on 'cause no
one knew.
Well, I wouldn’t recommend anyone take such a risk if they value eternity,
'Cause God’s not one for aiding cover-ups, brushing sin under the carpet; He not like we.

We can’t afford to play with grace, and thus should treat every day as though it
were our last,
Righting wrongs wherever we can, and not overlooking some things that were done in
the past;
Though where forgotten, or where we are unable, we leaving such in God’s
care, contritely,
'Cause this is what grace will cover, God reasonable and fair, but no fool, obviously.

We being without excuse, 'cause God's informed us clearly, His judgment a reality,
One that many downplay, the pendulum having swung the other way, hellfire to folly.
'Cause now, many are swallowing the lie that says that grace will cover deliberate sin,
Plus any wrongs that haven’t been dealt with (but should’ve been), revealing all’s not
well within.

The truth is, when we consciously sin, we should ask God for forgiveness immediately,
And likewise, when we wrong others, thus asking their forgiveness too, righting the wrong quickly.
And the reason why being, 'cause this is what Christ-like-ness is all about,
Christianity,
We new creatures, ambassadors, our conscience sharp and clear, our example
exemplary.

Otherwise, we might lead others astray, into sin — and that, friend, would be a tragedy,
'Cause they could lose out on eternity, the world having gained the upper hand, mastery.
And this why we must never fail to warn of God’s judgment, nor the consequences
of sin,
And by that I mean, wilful sin, rebellion, 'cause such shows a Christian who’s not genuine.

It’s not enough to just believe, 'cause even Satan believes, but he’s no true follower,
And nor many Christians continuing as before, and that’s where they perilously err.
'Cause the truth is, God desires we heed His Word, which includes righting wrongs, not
just obeying,
Hence why there’s a time of judgment, where the lives of all, our Lord will be
carefully weighing.

By Lance Landall


“ ‘So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift [Christ insists that men must make things right with their fellow men before they can be reconciled to God (1 John 4:20)]’ ” (Matt 5:23,24).

“But Zacchaus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house...’ ” (Luke 19:8,9, NIV).

“ ‘But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses’ ” (Matt 6:15).

“Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?’ And then will I profess unto them, ‘I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity’ ” (Matt 7:22,23, KJV).

“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to keep an eye on those who cause dissensions and offenses, in opposition to the teaching that you have learned; avoid them. For such people do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the simple-minded” (Rom 16:17,18).

15.  The Apocalyptic Angels

Apocalyptic angels appear within the pages of Revelation,
Given that they have urgent messages for this earth's End-time generation.
These angels are obviously representative of humans who're active
Heralding this final warning plea to all who on this dying planet live,

For have you seen any angels flying in the heavens and shouting so? No.

These heavenly angels (humans) warn, that up above, Christ's judgment has begun,
And that therefore, we all should give allegiance to no one but the Father’s Son,
That is, that all should worship the earth's Creator with total dedication,
Yes, He who in the court above, is making a thorough investigation.

When Christ returns to this earth that's dying, it is only then that He will reward,
As beforehand, over each one's record He will have very carefully pored.
But all those who heed the angels' warning, and thereby the right response display,
Won’t need to fear this judgment, because Christ will see that they've chosen to obey.

These heavenly angels (humans) also warn of falsehood that people must flee,
If they, with the saved and the God of love and truth, wish to spend eternity.
For everything that is false is “Babylon,” we via Revelation are told,
As falsehood and false worship parallel Nebuchadnezzar's Babylon of old.

We're also told that false prophets and false messiahs, who mingle truth and error
(And this, preceding the coming of our Lord), will mislead many a hearer.
Therefore, there’s an urgent need for each Christian to ensure that apostasy
Hasn't foolishly caught them napping, nor imbibing such heresy.

And hence the “wine” of "Babylon" that is also mentioned in Revelation,
That is confusing and misleading via its beguiling intoxication.
Yes, so very subtle and alluring is this clever Satanic cocktail,
That many earnest and committed Christians it's diverting down a false trail.

These angels (humans) also warn folk not to go worshiping a false power,
One that'll be controlling the whole of earth prior to Christ’s second coming hour,
For this Babylonian system is obviously Satan's master plan
That's designed to gain him the worship that belongs solely to the Son of Man.

This power is religious (we also learn from the book of Revelation),
'Cause this persecuting power is guilty of committing fornication.
Yes, a worldly power it's not, for by nature, such are corrupt already,
No, this one is very pious indeed, and its success has made it heady.

Thus what is seen here is a mixture — yes, a very wrongful combination,
In other words, religion wielding power via secular legislation.
It's a power that resorts to force to achieve what it considers as right;
A system that's built on error, one where black is simply paraded as white.

In the book of Revelation (full of loving warnings), one thing's clearly said,
And that is, that Christians should flee “Babylon,” correctly worship Christ instead.
Thus such clearly shows us that in "Babylon" Christians are wrongly residing,
And that any who choose to remain there, our Saviour's will won't be abiding.

And therefore, every Christian who remains in Babylon’s territory,
Our Saviour will one day say to them (and very sadly so), “Depart from Me,”
For even though they may have prophesied, even cast out devils in His name,
Or done many wondrous works, He will destroy them all with fire just the same.

Oh, how often it has been, shamefully, that all throughout Christian history
Many people in the name of Jesus Christ have thought and acted wrongfully.
And hence these warning messages contained within the book of Revelation,
That Christ in love is giving us lest anyone endanger their salvation.

So who might those angels (humans) be? People who such truth and importance see.

By Lance Landall


“Then I saw another angel flying in mid heaven, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth...He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give Him glory, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water’ ” (Rev 14:6,7). Note also Rev 3:5.

“Then another angel, a second, followed…” (Rev 14:8) —

“He called out with a mighty voice, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great [Babylon means confusion]! ...For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication [a religious-political alliance], and the kings of the earth [political powers] have committed fornication with her [entered into that alliance], and the merchants of the earth have grown rich from the power of her luxury.” Then I heard another voice from heaven saying, ‘Come out of her, my people, so that you do not take part in her sins, and so that you do not share in her plagues [Rev chapter 16]’ ” (Rev 18:2-4).

“Then another angel, a third, followed them, crying with a loud voice, “Those who worship the beast [the previous persecuting power (Dan 7:8,25)] and its image [the false religious-political power controlling the whole of earth], and receive a mark on their foreheads [symbolic of consent] or on their hands [symbolic of expediency (Rev 13:16,17)], they will also drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured unmixed into the cup of His anger...Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep [are loyal to] the commandments of God [the full Ten Commandments (Rom 13:8-10; Matt 22:36-40)] and hold fast to the faith of Jesus” (Rev 14:9-12). Note also Rev chapters 13,14,17,18 and 19. Also 2 Thess 2:2:3,4; Dan 7:25. Note Rev 13:15

“And I saw three foul spirits like frogs coming from the mouth [policy] of the dragon [Satan], from the mouth of the beast [the first persecuting power (Dan 7:25)], and from the mouth of the false prophet [the second power that effectively creates an image (copy) of the first power]. These are demonic spirits, performing signs [supernatural manifestations via various human agencies to authenticate the new religious union], who go abroad to the kings [political powers] of the whole world [to get them on their side], to assemble them for battle [the religious conflict] on the great day of God the Almighty ” (Rev 16:13,14). Note also 2 Thess 2:9-11.





REGARDING NON-CHRISTIANS

Romans 2:14-16, NASB

“When Gentiles [pagans], who do not possess the law [the written revealed code], do instinctively [according to the promptings of conscience spontaneously] what the law requires [principles of the moral law], these, though not having the law, are a law to themselves [the need and the impulse to do good that exist in the reason and conscience are, in a sense, a standard and law to each man]. They show that what the law requires [the conduct the  law demands (James 2:12)] is written on their hearts [wherever there is an impulse of love and sympathy, there is revealed the working of God’s Holy Spirit], to which their own conscience [acts according to the light it has] also bears witness [some awareness of the will of God]; and their conflicting thoughts [hidden things (Eccl 12:14; 2 Cor 10:5; Matt 5:28)] will accuse or perhaps excuse them on the day when, according to my gospel, God, through Jesus Christ, will judge [the judgment (Dan 7:9,10; Rev 20:11,12)] the secret thoughts of all.”


Same texts without the bracketed comments:

“For when Gentiles who do not have the Law do instinctively the things of the Law, these, not having the Law, are a law to themselves, in that they show the work of the Law written in their hearts, their conscience bearing witness and their thoughts alternately accusing or else defending them, on the day when, according to my gospel, God will judge the secrets of men through Jesus Christ.”