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The Judgement Seat of Christ

Those with a saving faith in the Lord have been judged relative to eternity. But followers of
Jesus will still appear before him:

"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10, NIV). The Apostle Paul also wrote: “...The fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping the flames” (1 Corinthians 3:13-15, NIV, emphasis mine).

These verses demonstrate that even if the works of a believer do not survive the fire, they will be saved. Therefore, the judgment seat of Christ is where believers will give an account of their lives to determine if they have earned any eternal rewards—an evaluation to assess how they have served the Lord after becoming His followers.

Each Christian is entrusted with various gifts and talents. We are to “work these out” since the Lord works in us to do so (Philippians 2:13). Thus, rewards are based on our faithfulness to what we've been given as we co-labor with Christ. In addition, the way we honor the Lord in all areas brings glory to God in this life and for eternity (Colossians 3:23-24).

Appearing before the judgment seat of Christ should be taken seriously. It’s also an opportunity for great blessings. Our Father not only sent his Son to rescue us, but he also desires to bless us with eternal rewards. (Matthew 6:24, Luke 6:22-23, Colossians 3:23-24). And the Lord honors all our faithfulness, whether it’s “seemingly” big or small (Matthew 10:40-42, 1 Corinthians 15:58). Ultimately, the greatest reward will be hearing the Lord say, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (see Matthew 25:21-23). To him be the glory!

Reflection: Consider how you can be faithful to what's been entrusted to you in your relationships, work, recreational activities, and spiritual gifts.

Matthew 10:40-42
1 Corinthians 3:10-15
Philippians 2:12-13
Colossians 3:17, 23-24