Sunday, May 5, 2013

THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST


1 Corinthians 3:11–19 “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire."

I think that preachers often misrepresent the truth of this passage of scripture.  The judgment seat of Christ that awaits every Christian is one of determining rewards—not exposing sin.  Scripture is clear in declaring that the believer is clothed in the righteousness of Christ and that our sins have been removed as far as east is from west.  It is our works that will be judged as to whether they qualify for reward.  I believe the deciding factor will be one of motive.  Were they done with a pure motive to honor the Savior?  Were they done in accordance with the will of God as declared in His word? 

This judgment is not something that should make the child of God afraid, but should encourage us in our desire to serve Him.  It’s amazing to me that He has provided a way for us to go to heaven, let alone that He desires to reward us for choosing to serve Him in love.




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