This principle is read as a positive or a negative; depending on where you are with the Lord. The fact remains, everyone is accountable to Him.

When we were children, we were accountable to our parents. When employed, we are accountable to our superiors. A soldier in the military is accountable to his commanding officer. These and other situations of accountability can change but our accountability to God never changes. In Hebrews 4:13, we find these words. “And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” See also Romans 14:12.

If you are a Christian, you (and I) will give an account before our Lord at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Notice these important words in 2 Corinthians 5:10. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”

If you are not a Christian, you will appear before God at the Great White Throne Judgment. Notice very carefully these words in Rev 20:11-12. “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. If you have the courage, go the Rev 20:13-15 for the rest of the story. You will want to avoid this judgment.

Our lifespan on earth is like the timeframe of a master away on a long journey. As stewards, we will give an account to our Master when He returns. In Luke 12:42-43, Jesus said these very important words: “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.” See also Matthew 25:14-29.

Notice these words of King Solomon in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.” As the common proverb says, “A word to the wise should be sufficient.” We would be wise to remember that all of us are accountable to Him. Let us all desire to hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Go to Principle #4 if you need to review that one.