Scripture
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. — 2 Corinthians 5:10 KJV
Observation
The “judgement seat” (Gk. bema) was the tribunal bench in the Romans courtrooms, where the governor sat while rendering judicial verdict (ESV Study Bible).
Herein “judgement seat of Christ” is a metaphorical reference to the place where every believer will appear before Christ for the evaluation “what he has done in the body”. Of course, Paul did not mean here to say that Christians will be judged for the sins, since their judgement has already taken place at the foot of the Cross (Ephesians 1:7). Rather, he refers to the earthly ministry during our lifetime. That relates to their rewards and praises from God, “so that each may receive what is due”. Jesus Christ will reward His followers for their deeds, “whether good or evil”. In this case, Greek terms “good or evil” do not refer to moral good and evil, but rather comparing valuable deeds done for eternity with those useless ones and done in vain.
This verse here has to serve as an encouragement and motivate every believer to strive to please our Lord God, with realization that we as followers of Christ are accountable to Him.
Application
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV
- Have you been baptized already?
- Do you know that you are the member of the Body of Christ?
- Do you attend a local church regularly?
- Are you helpful for your church family?
- Do you strive to please the Lord Jesus?
Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we thank You for the mercy and grace what You have given us. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the ultimate sacrifice; thank You for redeeming us and releasing us from the bondage of slavery to sin. We thank You for the privilege to serve You here on Earth. We pray that with the power and help of the Holy Spirit all our deeds will bring forth good fruits. We pray that all what we doing in our earthly ministries will bring glory to You only. Please, use us for the furtherance of You Kingdom.
All these we pray in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen
