Understanding a Big Idea in Simple Terms
If you’ve ever heard someone talk about “a day of reckoning” or “being called to account,” you might wonder what that actually means—especially in the Bible. Let’s break it down in everyday language.
What Is Reckoning, Anyway?
In the Bible, “reckoning” is kind of like settling the bill at a restaurant. Imagine you’ve just enjoyed a meal, and now the waiter brings you the check. The time has come to pay for what you’ve ordered. In spiritual terms, reckoning means that one day, everyone will have to answer for their actions, words, and even their thoughts. It’s about being held accountable—no one gets a free pass.
Old Testament: God Keeps the Books
In the Old Testament, reckoning is tied to the idea of God being fair and just. For example, there’s a story about Abraham (his name was Abram back then) who trusted God, and God “credited” his faith as righteousness. It’s like God saw Abraham’s trust and marked it down as a big plus in his account.
Prophets in the Old Testament also warned people that a day of reckoning was coming if they ignored God or did wrong. The message was: you can’t run forever. Sooner or later, everyone has to face the consequences of their choices.
New Testament: Jesus and the Final Account
Jesus picked up this idea and made it clear that one day, everyone would have to explain their lives—even the words they toss out carelessly. The Apostle Paul, who wrote many letters in the Bible, said it plainly: each person will give an account to God. There’s no dodging or hiding; everyone stands before God to settle up.
So What Does This Mean for Us?
This idea of reckoning isn’t just about fear or punishment. It’s also about hope. The Bible teaches that God is totally fair, and no wrong or right goes unnoticed. But here’s the good news: those who trust in Jesus find forgiveness and a fresh start. Just like Abraham’s faith was counted as a big plus, people who believe in Jesus get their mistakes wiped clean and are credited with “righteousness”—a right standing with God.
The Takeaway
In simple terms, biblical reckoning means that everyone will one day have to settle their accounts with God. It’s a reminder to live honestly, to seek forgiveness when we mess up, and to trust that God’s grace is bigger than our mistakes. While the idea might sound serious, it’s also meant to encourage us—because with faith, we can face that day of reckoning with hope instead of fear.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 