Many of God’s prophets gave this same warning. Jesus spoke often of “the day of judgment” (Matthew 11:22,24; 12:36; etc.). He spoke often of the unending pain and fire of “hell” (Matthew 5:22,29; 25:41,46; Mark 9:43-49; etc.).
In fact, every time this “hell” is mentioned in the New Testament (except for James 3:6), it is from the lips of Jesus Himself.
He knew that terrible punishment was waiting for sinful people. That is why He gave such strong warning—even to His own followers.
I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! (Luke 12:4-5)
Jesus Himself will have a part in judging us (John 5:22,27; 2 Corinthians 5:10).
He has fixed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom He has appointed; and of this He has given assurance to all by raising Him from the dead (Acts 17:31).
ERV: God has decided a day when He will judge all the people in the world. He will be fair. He will use a man to do this. God chose this man long ago. And God has proved this to every person; God proved it by raising the man from death!
How can we be sure that the day of judgment is coming? This verse says that the proof is Christ’s resurrection!
There were many eyewitnesses who saw Jesus alive after His death. His victory over death is well known, proving to all people that death is not the end. All will one day be resurrected from death (John 5:29). And if all will be raised, they all will meet God. Then they will answer to God for the choices they made on earth!