We see this reality today. Some Christians seek God continually so they may dwell in His Presence. Others are not nearly as zealous when it comes to seeking the Presence of the Lord. They are quite content to dwell on the fringes of God's grace, being concerned only that their routines are not upset. They are not at peace in a more fervent assembling of saints.

It is evident that Christians who have little desire to spend time in God's Presence while they are living in this world will not, merely because they have professed faith in the atonement, be thrust into the center of the Divine Fire when they die physically. They would be dismayed at the thought of having to live in such an atmosphere here and God certainly will not torment them with His Presence in Paradise.

Our present relationship to God and Christ will continue after we die. What we are, we are, and what we are will determine our placement after we die. This is the author's point of view as well as the testimony of Christian visionaries.

In the Day of Christ, what we are will be made manifest. Then we shall be rewarded according to what we have practiced in our body. If we have been learning our spiritual lessons and growing in Christ we then shall continue to learn and grow. If we have neglected or refused the Divine redemption there remains for us a fearful looking for of Divine wrath. There is an abundance of scriptural support for this.

Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. (Matthew 25:28,29)

What a difference it would make in the lives of Christians if they understood that physical death will not change what they are but rather will reveal what they are!

Let us consider the doctrine of "stripes":

And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. (Luke 12:47,48)

One man is not judged by another man's gifts. Each individual is held accountable for the light he or she has been given. Since no person can come to Christ unless the Father draws him, it becomes clear that it is God who decides how much light each person will be given. Therefore we ought not to be harsh in our judgment of people.

Let us notice, first of all, that Luke 12:47,48 is referring to the servants of the Lord. Verse 46 contrasts the Lord's servants with the "unbelievers."

The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. (Luke 12:46)

To be continued.