The sins of some men are quite evident, going before them to judgment; for others, their sins follow after. Likewise also, deeds that are good are quite evident, and those which are otherwise cannot be concealed. [1 Timothy 5:24-25 NASB]
Often, criminal activity is obvious. We can see if someone is a thief, a rioter, or a murderer. In less criminal circumstances, we can tell if someone is a habitual liar, or a drunkard. We can look at such people, and unless they acknowledge and receive the Lord's grace, we know their fate in the judgement. We can easily recognize the deeds of the flesh;
Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. [Galatians 5:19-21 NASB]
There are other sins that are not quite so obvious. Jesus said;
“You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’ “But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court. [Matthew 5:21-22 NASB]
He also said;
“You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY’; but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. [Matthew 5:27-28 NASB]
I have heard Christians justify their roving eyes by saying, "There's no harm in looking." But, according to Jesus, there is. It is sin, just as surely as if you hooked up and had an adulterous affair. In God's eyes, sinful thoughts are just as sinful as sinful acts.
Likewise, some good deeds are obvious, and others are not. But all of our deeds, whether obvious or hidden, will be revealed in the final judgement;
Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God. [1 Corinthians 4:5 NASB]
In this context, it is apparent that Paul was still instructing Timothy regarding the discipline and appointment of elders.
On a more personal note, this scripture applies to our own lives. We need to examine ourselves, and we need to be sure of our righteous standing with God. We may think our sin is hidden, but God has said, "be sure your sin will find you out." [Numbers 32:23 NASB]
In the same way, your good deeds will also be apparent to the world. Jesus said;
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. [Matthew 5:16 NASB]
Some of our good deeds are noticeable, but others will never be seen or recognized. We must remember that we do good works for the glory of God, and not for recognition. Jesus said;
“Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven. [Matthew 6:1 NASB]
This is a question of motive. If you do good works to be seen, then the recognition of men is the only reward you will receive, and you will have forfeited your heavenly reward.
But, if you serve with the right motives, and the world sees your good works, then the glory goes to God, and you will receive your reward in heaven.
Father, I pray that you will reveal my heart and show me my hidden sins that I may confess them to You. Please forgive me of my sins and give me the grace to overcome them. Please show my motives in service to You, and help me to keep them pure.
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