Note 9 at Col. 3:25: Some have interpreted verses 24-25 as saying that every individual gets exactly what he deserves or earns, according to his actions. That's not exactly what Paul is saying.

Many passages of scripture show that salvation is a gift which is offered to the least deserving (Rom. 4:5). If our actions were required to earn salvation, no one would be saved (Rom. 3:23). So those who receive the gift of salvation by putting faith in Christ (Eph. 2:8) "receive the reward of the inheritance..." (v. 24), which is Christ's inheritance. Although we don't deserve it, we receive all the provisions of Christ's inheritance because we have become joint-heirs with Him.

However, verse 25 is speaking of those who do not receive the free gift of salvation. They will be held accountable for their actions and there will be no mercy shown (see note 10 at this verse).

Note 10 at Col. 3:25: Without Christ's redemptive work in a person's life, he will have to stand and give an account for all the wrong which he has done. Those who have not received salvation by faith will have the Lord show no favoritism or partiality in the day of judgment - "...the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done" (RSV).

The apostle Paul's discourse before Felix renders a similar statement, "And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance (self-control), and judgment to come, Felix trembled (he was afraid), and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee" (Acts 24:25).

Although God's salvation is "free" it must be received (Jn. 1:12). Those who do not receive God's free gift will be punished eternally (Rom. 6:23).