Scripture Reading: Acts 24:21b, “…I am being judged by you this day.”

Introduction:

A. The closing chapters of the Book of Acts record various times, whether in a court of justice or before a riotous crowd, where Paul is being judged.

1. In Acts 24 Paul finds himself in Caesarea before Governor Felix.

B. Jesus said in John 7:24, “judge with righteous judgment.”

1. The judgment by man, for various reasons, is often incorrect.

C. By contrasting man’s judgment with God’s, one can readily see the difference and more fully appreciate the justice of God.

Discussion:

I. The Judgment of Man.

A. Man’s judgment is limited (1 Samuel 16:7).

B. Man’s judgment can be influenced by prejudices (racial, cultural, economic, etc.).

C. Man’s judgment can be influenced by greed or self-gain (Acts 24:26).

D. Man’s judgment can be blind to his own faults (Matthew 7:2-4).

II. The Judgment of God.

A. God is a judge (Psalm 75:7; Isaiah 33:2; Hebrews 12:23).

B. God is a true and righteous judge (Psalm 19:9).

C. God’s judgment is without prejudice (Romans 2:11; Acts 10:34).

D. God’s judgment is based on all the facts (Romans 8:27; Psalm 7:9).

III. The Justice of God.

A. Many claim atheism because they see God as unjust.

B. Others speak of, “their God,” as one who would not behave like God as revealed in the Bible.

C. If we stand before the judgment seat of Christ (Romans 14:10) on our own merit, the justice of God will demand punishment of our souls.

1. Provision has been made for our justification (Romans 3:21-26).

Conclusion:

Abraham said to God in Genesis 18:25, “shall not the judge of all the earth do right?” Do not reject the goodness of God that leads you to repentance (Romans 2:4).