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By Dean Kelly

Back in the fall, for most, sometime in August, a new school year began. From little kindergarteners to those who would suffer from “senioritis,” studies ensued. Tests were taken, papers written and projects done. 

In August it seemed like forever until the Christmas holiday, much less until school ended for the year. It looked like such a long stretch from January until summer, even with a spring break included. To some, however, the year went faster than for others. As all those end-of-the-year projects, tests, etc. came on them it seemed like there was not enough time to get everything done.

Most classes take “final exams” at the end of the first semester and at the end of the school year. Often passing or failing can depend on those exams. 

There is a “final exam” that we all must take. Hebrews 9:27 states, “And it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” Paul makes these inspired comments, “… for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, And every tongue shall confess to God.’ So, then each of us shall give account of himself to God” (Romans 14:10b-12).

Jesus came and gave Himself on that cross so that we could face the “final exam” with confidence. He paid the price for us to “pass.” If we submit to God in obedient faith, we can take advantage of the grace offered to us through Jesus’ death. 

As penitent, confessing believers who have been baptized into Christ for the remission of our sins, and who have been added by God to Christ’s body, His church, we, by continuing faithfully in His service, will pass the ultimate test and enjoy the victory in Jesus eternally! 

Dean Kelly is minister at Highland Home Church of Christ.