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For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. 2 Corinthians 5:10
D.L. MOODY
Some people say that you never can tell till you are before the throne of judgment whether you are saved or not. Why, if our life is hid with Christ in God, we are not coming into judgment for our sins. We may come into judgment for reward. This is clearly taught where the lord reckoned with the servant to whom five talents had been given, and who brought other five talents. His lord said unto him, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:21). We shall be judged for our stewardship—that is one thing; but salvation—eternal life—is quite another thing.
ERWIN LUTZER
We must distinguish between the judgment seat of Christ, where believers will appear, and the great white throne judgment before which all unbelievers will appear (Revelation 20:11–15). Although Jesus paid for our sins, believers will be judged on the basis of what we did with what we were given. We receive rewards for being faithful stewards.
This is sobering. Even though we are exempt from final judgment, Christians should recognize we are not exempt from a kind of judgment that is going to determine our rewards and level of responsibility in the coming kingdom of heaven. I personally take the point of view that not every Christian is going to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23). May we live in light of the coming judgment seat of Jesus Christ.
PRAYER
Father, teach me to serve and glorify you with all I’ve been entrusted. May I hear “Well done” from your lips.REFLECTION QUESTIONS
What sacrifices are easier to make when viewed in light of eternity?
Looking over your life as a believer, do you think you have stewarded well your time, and talents that the Lord has given you?