Revelation 16

“Look, I am coming like a thief. The one who is alert and remains clothed so that he may not go around naked and people see his shame is blessed.” Revelation 16:15 (HCSB)

“…for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2-4 (NIV)

Have you ever had anything stolen from you? I have. I remember coming out of the Mall one day, getting into my car, turning on the radio, and…no sound. I turned around to discover that someone had stolen my car stereo speakers!! Serves me right for leaving the convertible top down. My dad warned me it would happen someday. Nevertheless, I was totally shocked on the day I got ripped off.  

So, it will also be for unbelievers on the Day of the Lord. Despite the warnings, many will be totally surprised when it actually comes. Friends, there is a reckoning forthcoming. A final and harsh lesson awaits all who reject the Lord, who have refused to be clothed in His righteousness.

“I greatly rejoice in the Lord, I exult in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness.” Isaiah 61:10b (HCSB)

Remember the story of Adam & Eve, how they lived in the Garden of Eden before the fall? Their flesh had not been corrupted by sin, so they had nothing to hide. Their nakedness bore witness to their sinlessness.  

“Both the man and his wife were naked, yet felt no shame.” Genesis 2:25 (HCSB)

After Adam & Eve sinned, their corrupted flesh bore witness to their sinful act. So, they attempted to cover themselves.  

“I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid.” Genesis 3:10 (HCSB)

Listen, it is impossible to hide our sins from the Lord. We cannot cover ourselves with enough good deeds. Sin is a mark, impossible to rub off. It is a disease that is impossible to self-medicate and recover from.

In the days of Adam & Eve, the Lord clothed their sinful flesh with animal skins…but this was only to “cover their shame.”  It didn’t permanently atone for sin. Nor did it change their inner conditions or impending judgment.

When Jesus took the sin of the world upon Himself, He paid the penalty we deserve for our personal sin conditions. The Salvation Jesus offers clothes us with His righteousness. The day of the Lord will come, like a thief, upon the whole world. Only those clothed in Messiah’s righteousness will be able to stand without shame. Would you receive His atonement, His “garments of righteousness” today? Admit (to Jesus) that you are a sinner and tell Him you want to receive the atonement He freely offers.