The judgement seat of Christ

July 17, 2020 (Friday)

 

“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]

 

Today I want cover “judgement.” Specifically “the judgement seat” of Christ. One problem we have with the concept occurs because of a misunderstanding of “judgement.” The Greek word used here is “bema.” In the ancient Roman world, the “bema” was a raised platform where the dignitaries would sit and judge competitions. It is where the participants of a competition was invited to receive their reward. We do this at the Olympics and many other events (like graduation) where an achievement is recognized.

 

Did I just turn your idea of “judgement” upside down? I hope so. This is not the “Great White Throne” we see in Revelation 20:11 – 15. That is a place of judgement for the damned souls heading for the eternal lake of fire. The Bema, on the other hand, seems to have a different nature. This appears to be the believer’s judgment.

 

Paul speaks about our works being judged by fire, “each one’s work will be clearly shown. The day will make it clear, because it will be revealed with fire—the fire will test the quality of each one’s work.  If anyone’s work survives, they’ll get a reward.  But if anyone’s work goes up in flames, they’ll lose it. However, they themselves will be saved as if they had gone through a fire.” [1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15 CEB] This begs the question: what are you investing your life into on this earth that will make an eternal difference?

 

Paul told the Ephesians, “Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.” [Ephesians 6:8 NLT] This was more than a subtle jab at slavery in the Roman world. Reward, or the loss and lack of reward, were promised to both “slaves and free.” Paul urges, “Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.” [Colossians 3:24 NLT] We ultimately answer to only one Master.

 

As Paul anticipated the end of his life, he wrote, “And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:8 NLT] Here is a joyful anticipation of the “Bema.”

 

Just a thought. Really a question. Can you take anything to heaven? Absolutely YES. Paul put it this way, “What is our hope, joy, or crown that we can brag about in front of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Isn’t it all of you? You are our glory and joy!” [1 Thessalonians 2:19 – 20 CEB] 

Do you really want to stand before Jesus empty-handed, not having been part of bringing people to heaven? Do you really want to stand before Jesus covered in the ashes of a life’s work judged to be “wood, hay, and stubble?” Come to think of it, do you even want to stand before Jesus and receive what you deserve?