Truth & Consequences
In the past you have probably heard someone say, “Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but not their own facts.” However, our society is so out of balance, even that expression has been altered. Many now say, “Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and their own facts.” Yes, sad to say, but many hold fixed to the belief that there is no absolute truth, no right or wrong, no standard of accountability. Thus, no means of governance and certainly no means for God.
Yes, these are strange times in which we live. Yet, there is nothing new under the sun; unredeemed humanity still seeks to gratify the desires of the flesh and be ruler of his own world. Nonetheless, God is still the same yesterday, today, and forevermore. His Word will not be altered regardless of what people do, say, or think. His Word states, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment” – Hebrews 9:27a (NIV). Consequently, you will have to answer to someone greater than yourself, and there is not a second chance after physical death. For example,
Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with him. When they came to a place called The Skull, they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing…” One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!” But the other criminal protested, “Don’t you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die? We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise” – Luke 23:32-34a, 39-43 (NLT).
Two individuals, both were sinners, but one chose to repent, and forgiveness was granted hence awarded paradise. While the other was unrepented, and because of that assigned to the place of unbelievers (i.e., hell), a place in contrast to that of paradise. See, no second chance after death. Everyone truly is entitled to their own opinion, their own choice, but not their own truth and certainly not their own eternal consequences.