In Paul's day, every city in Greece built a public place called the Bema, or “judgment seat”. It was from this raised platform, usually in the center of town, that official announcements were made, judgments rendered and commendations handed out. All public proclamations came from this Bema seat. So, we should not think that it was only a place for fear and trembling. Certainly, some were rebuked when they came here, but others were rewarded and blessed. According to II Corinthians 5, one day all believers in Christ will stand before the Bema, or Judgment Seat, and Christ will examine our works on earth. What does the Bible say about it?

THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST – II CORINTHIANS 5:10

There are 10 ten things to know about this judgment:

1. It is a necessity for all believers in Christ.

2. All believers will be judged, not just leaders or key believers.

3. The judgment will be individual.

4. It is a judgment of practice, not position.

5. The judgment will be directed by Christ.

6. The judgment will come after the Church is Raptured to Heaven (Rev. 4-6).

7. The believer’s work will be made manifest before the Lord.

8. Believers will suffer loss when works are done for self.

There are two types of foundations upon which we build our lives

(Read 1 Corinthians 3:10-15).

:

a. Gold, Silver, Precious Stones - represents that which is valuable, permanent,

and difficult. Things that are done for Christ.

b. Wood, Hay and Stubble - represent that which is temporary, cheap and

easy. Things that are done for Self.

c. Lot is the perfect picture of a believer who allowed loose living take everything

he possessed. He was saved from wrath, but he lost everything else ( Gen. 13-

19.)

9. Believers will be rewarded when the works are done for Christ.

10. There will we rewards for the Faithful. The New Testament speaks of crowns that will be given to those who earn them. These are:

1. The Incorruptible Crown - Awarded for faithfulness to the Lord - 1 Cor. 9:25.

2. The Crown of Life - For the person who endures and overcomes temptation -

James 1:12.

3. The Crown of Rejoicing - This is the soul winners crown - 1 Thes. 2:19.

4. The Crown of Righteousness - This will be given to those who anticipate and

live in the light of the return of Jesus - 2 Tim. 4:8

5. The Crown of Glory -This will be given to the faithful ministers who give

themselves to lead and feed the flock of God - 1 Pet. 5:4.

THINK ABOUT IT

If you were to face Jesus today in the judgment, what would be the outcome? Would you see all your works and deeds go up in smoke? Or would you hear Him say, "Well, done thou good and faithful servant."?

Only one life,

'twil soon be past.

Only what's done for Christ

Will last!”