The Judgment Seat of Christ

What is it and why is it important to us?

1

Judgment Seat of Christ Study

Defined: The event following the Rapture in which the works of every believer will be judged

What is not: A judgment of the believer’s sins (Christ already took care of them)-Romans 8:1; 32-39; Hebrews 10:10-15; 1 Peter 2:24

Background/Use of the word: *bema/986:

1) a step, pace, the space which a foot covers, a foot-breath2) a raised place mounted by steps

2a) a platform, tribune2a1) of the official seat of a judge2a2) of the judgment seat of Christ2a3) Herod built a structure resembling a throne at Caesarea, from

which he viewed the games and made speeches to the people

Historical usage: 1) Judicial court: Used by the Romans of a seat where a judge would pass sentences on

legal cases(Matthew 27:19; Acts 18:12-17; 25:6-10)

2) Athletic event: Used by the Greeks of a judge who would enforce rules in an athletic contest and award prizes to the winners (illus. by 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 2 Timothy 2:5; 4:7-8)

Occurrences of bema in Scripture:Mat 27:17 Therefore, when they had gathered together, Pilate said to them, "Whom do

you want me to release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?" Mat 27:18 For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy. Mat 27:19 While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent to him, saying, "Have

nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him."

Joh 19:12 From then on Pilate sought to release Him, but the Jews cried out, saying, "If you let this Man go, you are not Caesar's friend. Whoever makes himself a king speaks against Caesar."

Joh 19:13 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus out and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called The Pavement, but in Hebrew, Gabbatha.

Act 12:20 Now Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king's personal aide their friend, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food by the king's country.

Act 12:21 So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them.

2

Act 18:12 When Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat,

Act 18:13 saying, "This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law." Act 18:14 And when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If it were

a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would be reason why I should bear with you.

Act 18:15 But if it is a question of words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves; for I do not want to be a judge of such matters."

Act 18:16 And he drove them from the judgment seat. Act 18:17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him

before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things. Act 25:4 But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself

was going there shortly. Act 25:5 "Therefore," he said, "let those who have authority among you go down with me

and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him." Act 25:6 And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to

Caesarea. And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought.

-see also 25:10, 17

Rom 14:10 But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

2Co 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

When? Following the Rapture (Romans 14:10; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 2 Corinthians 5:10) and before the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Rev. 19:7-9)

Where? Either in the air or at a throne in heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:17; Revelation 4:2-10)

What? To determine the quality of each believer’s works as to whether they receive a reward or suffer loss(1 Corinthians 3: 12-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 John 2:28)

Participants? Every believer of the Church dispensation

Why do we need to study the Judgment Seat of Christ?1) To clearly understand what it is and why it’s important2) To see what will be judged/evaluated3) To have a practical understanding of how we should be responding now to this future

event4) To understand the future ramifications of this event

The believer’s participation in the Judgment Seat of Christ is mandatory Rom 14:10 But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Rom 14:11 For it is written: "AS I LIVE, SAYS THE LORD, EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW TO ME, AND EVERY TONGUE SHALL CONFESS TO GOD." Rom 14:12 So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.

3

*we: Church believers (Rom. 14:8)*shall all: individually, everyone*stand before (paristemi/3936): to present, to present a person for another to see and

question-future middle indicative

*every knee shall bow : see Philippians 2:10-11*every tongue confess: to acknowledge openly*each of us: no exceptions, all, the whole*account (logos/3056): that which is uttered; an answer or explanation in regards to

judgment-Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 4:5

Summary: The context of these verses is that each believer will be brought before the Lord to verbally give account of themselves; therefore, it is not our place to judge fellow believers, especially in matters of liberty. Most likely there were Jewish believers attempting to control believers’ actions through use of the Mosaic law. In terms of the Judgment Seat of Christ, is the Lord to whom we are to give an account of ourselves. It is mandatory and every believer will be there. Our Lord is righteous and His judgment of us will be righteous and just.

The evaluation will be on our works2Co 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

*we must all: individually and necessary, no one can opt out*must: of necessity; necessity established by the counsel and decree of God*appear (phaneroo/5319): of persons to expose to view, to show one’s self; to make

visible what has been hidden -see 1 Cor. 4:5 (also Mark 4:22)

*before: in front of; in the presence of*that: purpose of the appearing*each one: every one*may receive: to obtain, to get back*the things done in the body: emphasizing the works of the body, our labor *according to what he has done: to accomplish*good (agathos/18): useful, excellent, and beneficial*bad : worthless

Summary: Like the portion in Romans, the point is presented that every one of us must appear before Christ. But unlike Romans, the purpose of the judgment is given: to evaluate the quality of the works done by the believer (not in our ability, but the Lord working through us) in his/her body. Will the works be judged as beneficial or worthless? This begs the question; beneficial to whom? One could argue that it is whether the works benefited the body of Christ as the basis of the evaluation (Ephesians 2:10; Eph. 4:11-13). And let us remind ourselves, that it is Christ who is the evaluator, not us.

4

The Judgment Seat of Christ will be a place of testing and revealing1Co 3:8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. 1Co 3:9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building. 1Co 3:10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. 1Co 3:11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1Co 3:12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 1Co 3:13 each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is. 1Co 3:14 If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 1Co 3:15 If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire. 1Co 3:16 Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?

The illustration that Paul uses in these verses is that of a building. Paul refers to the believers as ‘God’s building’ in verse 9, ‘the temple’ in verse 17 (see Ephesians 2:21) and building upon the foundation of Jesus Christ in verses 11-12. And it is the materials listed in verse 12 that are being evaluated on the basis of their value as building materials. And if recall 2 Corinthians 5:10, the evaluation is whether the works are ‘good’ (beneficial or useful) or ‘bad’ (worthless or useless).1Co 3:8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor.

*reward (misthos/3408): dues paid for work, used of the fruit naturally resulting from toils and endeavors; of the rewards God will bestow

-Matt. 6:1-6; 10:41; 16:27; Col. 2:18; Heb. 10:35; 2 John 1:8; Rev. 22:12

*labor (kopos/2873): intense labor united with trouble and toil-see verses on laboring

Although Christians will stand as one corporate group before Christ, they will not be judged as

a group, but as individuals (Are These the Last Days?, Robert Glenn Gromacki)

1Co 3:9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building. 1Co 3:10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it.

*take heed (blepo/991): to see; to weigh carefully, to examine

1Co 3:12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw,

*gold: Gold is mentioned over 80 times in the book of Exodus in reference to being used as a building material in the tabernacle (particularly the mercy seat [Ex. 25:17-22 ]).

5

According to the Scofield note for Exodus 25:1 (p. 121), gold is a picture of the deity in manifestation, divine glory (see also 2 Timothy 2:19-21)

In many Scriptures “Gold” symbolizes God’s glory and righteousness, especially in the Book of Revelation. Apart from the coverings and curtains of the Tabernacle, everything seen in both the Holy Place and the Most Holy was either pure gold or covered with gold. This included the Ark and the Mercy Seat. Though all the Tabernacle was typical of the Lord Jesus, the Mercy Seat - occupying the central place of worship-was particularly symbolic of Christ. In this Holy tent, we find that Gold represented the glory of God’s righteousness as fulfilled in Christ; and in the Mercy Seat itself, as seen in Him, who satisfied God’s righteousness, when He became our

propitiation (The Judgment Seat of Christ: An Incentive and a Warning; L. Sale-Harrison)

-see Romans 3:25; 1 John 2:1-2

Php 1:9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,

Php 1:10 that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ,

Php 1:11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

*silver: Also used in the tabernacle, silver pictures redemption (see Ex. 26:19, note; 30:11-16; 38: 27) *precious stones: The Greek word for stones is lithos, which can either be interpreted as gems (Revelation 21:11, 19/representing the glory and beauty of Jesus Christ) or building stones (Matthew 24:1-2; 1 Peter 2:4-9).*wood: pictures inferior quality (2 Timothy 2:19-21) in comparison to gold and silver

*hay: grass used by animals for grazing and representative of the temporary glory of man1Pe 1:24 because "ALL FLESH IS AS GRASS, AND ALL THE GLORY OF MAN AS

THE FLOWER OF THE GRASS. THE GRASS WITHERS, AND ITS FLOWER FALLS AWAY,

1Pe 1:25 BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you.

*straw: stalk of grain after the ears have been cut off

1Co 3:13 each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is.

*work (ergon/2041): deeds; business or employment; that which one is occupied; product*will become: to be made; to be published

-future middle indicative*clear (phaneros/5318): to be made evident; made known or public

-Mark 4:22

6

*the Day: the Day of Christ*will declare it (deloo/1213): to manifest, to show

-future active indicative*it (the work) will be revealed (apokalupto/601): to uncover, to lay open what has been

veiled or covered up; laid bare; to disclose what was before unknown*the fire will test each one’s work;

-test (dokimazo/1381): to examine a thing to see whether it is genuine or not (see 1 Peter 1:7; Phil 1:10)-see (Rev. 1:13-17)-future active indicative

*of what sort it is: what quality it is (notice the emphasis is on quality, not quantity)

1Co 3:14 If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 1Co 3:15 If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

*built (epoikodomeo/2026): to build upon-aorist active indicative

*endures (meno/3306): remains, lasts (has eternal value)*reward: dues paid for work, used of the fruit naturally resulting from toils and endeavors; of the rewards God will bestow (Matthew 16:27; Revelation 22:12)*is burned (katakaio/2618): consumed by fire; to consume wholly, to burn to the ground;

-future passive indicative-2 Peter 3:10

Burned up-what an awful word. All one’s hard work gone. The losses still remain; but all the time and energy spent, probably for years, is wasted. (Sales-Harrison)

*shall suffer loss (zemioo/2210): to sustain damage

-the damage is to his works, which will be completely consumed by the fire leaving the believer only with his salvation

-future passive indicative-Mark 8:36; Phil. 3:8

I confess that I do not know all that is implied in this verse by the expressions, “man’s work shall be burned,” and “suffer loss,” and “saved…so as by fire.” But even though we may not know fully what these figures actually represent, one thing is crystal clear-it will be a terrible calamity for believers to suffer loss when they might have had something that will abide at the Judgment Seat of Christ. It certainly will not be a pleasant experience to “suffer” loss (Studies in First

Corinthians, M. R. DeHaan)

*saved: kept safe; protected-future passive indicative

Notice only two scenarios are presented; reward or complete burning.

7

The gold, silver, costly stones are indestructible materials. These are the work of God, which man only appropriates and uses. On the other hand, wood, hay and stubble are destructible materials. These are the work of men which man has produced by his own effort. The apostle is revealing the fact that the examination at the bema of Christ is to determine which was done by God through the individual and that which the individual did in his own strength; that which was done for the glory of God and that which was done for the glory of the flesh. It cannot be determined by outward observation into which class any work falls, so that work must be put into the crucible in order that its true character may be proved. (Things to Come; J. Dwight Pentecost)

Summary: Here the fire is used to test the quality of the believer’s works as illustrated as building materials. The materials are divided into two groups: those of eternal quality that will remain after the fire tests them (gold [Christ’s deity and glory], silver [Christ’s redemptive work], precious stones [Christ’s beauty and splendor]), and those of temporal quality that will burn down to the foundation (wood, hay, stubble) having no eternal value. And I believe that each of those groups are representative of a greater truth: those that are of the quality of the person and work of Jesus Christ, and those that are of the best that man can offer. The believer in this dispensation of grace has been given the incredible opportunity to have the person of Christ, and His glory, manifested in these bodies (John 17:20-23; 2 Cor. 3:18; Gal. 2:20; Col. 1:27). As we are by faith reflecting His glory, the inevitable results is good works, the quality of which will be found, after the examination of the fire, to be that which will abide into eternity.Unto this, Paul adds the truth of revealing, uncovering which was previously hidden (‘will become clear,’ ‘declare’ and ‘reveal’). The Judgment Seat will be a time of when that which was done for the Lord’s glory, though unseen by man at the time, will be recognized and praised for all to see. Conversely, those works which were done in secret which did not benefit the Lord will be unveiled for all to see and their quality will be revealed as well. Quite a sobering thought.

1Co 4:4 For I know of nothing against myself, yet I am not justified by this; but He who judges me is the Lord. 1Co 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one's praise will come from God.

*judge (krino/2919: to pronounce opinion concerning right or wrong-present active imperative (with the negative “stop judging before the time)

*the time: defined as when the Lord comes*until the Lord comes: the Rapture which begins the Day of Christ*bring to light (photizo/5461): to come to light and make clear to all; to render evident

-future active indicative*the hidden things (kruptos/2927): those things that have been concealed*will make manifest: to make visible, to reveal what has been hidden, to expose to view

-future active indicative*the counsels (boule/1012): purposes* of the heart: the seat of the thoughts, passions, desires, purposes; our motives*every one shall receive praise: commendation

8

Summary: This verse gives us the timing of the Judgment Seat, after He comes for His saints (the Rapture). And again, Jesus Christ’s character as the judge is declared, His ability not only to judge our works, but our inner workings (thoughts, intents) as well (not only what was done but why it was done)(Rev. 1:13-17). We are also commanded to not take on that role of judge which belongs to our Lord. As He is the perfect savior, He is also the perfect judge.

The Lord has prepared good works for the believer to walk in for His glory

*good: beneficial, useful*works: deeds; business or employment; that which one is occupied; product

1Co 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Eph 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, Eph 2:9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. Eph 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

As those saved by His grace and members of the new man (body of Christ/Ephesians 2:13-16), God in eternity past, has prepared good works for each body part that we may respond and do His will. Good works are part of God’s eternal purpose for us and it is His plan that we walk in them.

Eph 4:11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, Eph 4:12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, Eph 4:13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;

Col 1:3 We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, Col 1:4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints; Col 1:5 because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, Col 1:6 which has come to you, as it has also in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth; Col 1:7 as you also learned from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf, Col 1:8 who also declared to us your love in the Spirit. Col 1:9 For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; Col 1:10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; Col 1:11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering

9

Col 1:12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.

2Th 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, 2Th 2:14 to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2Th 2:15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. 2Th 2:16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 2Th 2:17 comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.

2Ti 2:19 Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity." 2Ti 2:20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 2Ti 2:21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.

Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, Tit 2:12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, Tit 2:13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, Tit 2:14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

Here we have, in these four verses, the application of grace in the believer’s life from start to finish. It is by the grace of God that we are saved (v.11); it is the grace of God that trains us to deny (disregard one’s own interest) those things that contrary to His character (e.g. Romans 6 and victory over the sin nature); and it is grace that shows us the right way to live and then produces that life in us. And it is grace that causes us to look beyond the temporal and embrace the eternal in waiting for our Lord and Savior. And then it is grace that teaches us to be zealous (most eagerly desirous) for His good works.

Tit 3:4 But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, Tit 3:5 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, Tit 3:6 whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, Tit 3:7 that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Tit 3:8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.

The trustworthy saying formula so common in the Pastorals (cf. 1Ti_1:15; 1Ti_3:1; 1Ti_4:9; 2Ti_2:11) introduces Paul’s return to direct address. Because what he had just been saying is trustworthy, Titus should stress these things in order to promote godly behavior in his listeners. Twice before Paul had instructed Titus to teach these things in accordance with sound doctrine (Tit_2:1, Tit_2:15), and this exhortation is his final

10

reiteration of what is probably the central thrust of the entire epistle. Paul was deeply concerned that God’s people devote themselves to doing what is good because these things are excellent and profitable for everyone. Titus was to promote good

works, for they go hand in hand with sound doctrine. (Bible Knowledge Commentary)

Heb 13:20 Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Heb 13:21 make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Rev 22:12 "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.

The Believer’s Response: Abiding

1Jn 2:28 And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.

*abide (meno/3306): to rest, to remain as one, to not become another or different-present active imperative (command)

*confidence (parrhesia/3954): freedom in speaking, openly, without concealment, cheerful courage, boldness (see Ephesians 3:12; Philippians 1:20; Hebrews 4:16; 10:19, 35)

*ashamed (aischunomai/153): dishonor (Phil. 1:20)-The fundamental thought is that of separation and shrinking from God through the shame of conscious guilt-passive: to be put to shame

In accord with his basic theme about fellowship (1Jn_1:3), John once more enjoined the “abiding” life. But now he introduced the new thought of being confident before Christ at His coming. The Greek words rendered “be confident” are literally “have confidence.” The latter is parresia, a word that can signify a bold freedom of speech. John used it again in 1Jn_3:21; 1Jn_4:17; 1Jn_5:14. If the readers would maintain their fellowship with God, they would enjoy a genuine boldness of speech when they would meet their Lord. How this can be so is the subject of 2:29-4:19. Should a believer fail to abide in Him, however, there is the possibility of shame when Christ comes. This intimates divine disapproval at the judgment seat of Christ, referred to in 1Jn_4:17-19. The NIV’s unashamed before Him might be more literally rendered: “not be ashamed before Him.” (Bible Knowledge Commentary)

In order to determine what the disobedient Christian shall receive for his wrongdoing one could go to such passages as 1 Corinthians 3:15 and 1 John 2:28. These verses indicate that wrongdoing does have eternal consequences, namely, the loss of eternal rewards which one could have received and the experiencing of shame before the Lord of glory. To the degree that a Christian is unfaithful he will experience loss of reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ. This loss will be a real and eternal loss which can never be regained (The Judgment Seat of Christ; Samuel L. Hoyt).

1Jn 4:16 And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. 1Jn 4:17 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.

11

1Jn 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.

*abide: to rest, to remain as one, to not become another or different (oneness)*perfected: to be completed; to bring to completion*confidence (parrhesia/3954): freedom in speaking, openly, without concealment,

cheerful courage, boldness

But a believer’s life will be assessed at the judgment seat of Christ (1Co_3:12-15; 2Co_5:10). Yet even on that solemn occasion, a believer may have confidence (parresian; cf. 1Jn_2:28; 1Jn_3:21; 1Jn_5:14) that God will approve the quality of his life if, through love, that believer while in this world becomes like Him. An unloving Christian is unlike his Lord and may anticipate rebuke and loss of reward at the judgment seat. But a loving believer is one in whom

the work of God’s love has been made complete (cf. the same words in 1Jn_2:5; 1Jn_4:12), and the fruit of that is boldness before the One who will judge him. In this way he achieves the goal of confidence and no shame before Him, expressed in 1Jn_2:28. (BKC)

The Believer’s Rewards

I. Crowns

Crown: (stephanos/4735): the wreath or garland which was given as a prize to victors in public games; a token of public honor for distinguished service

A. Imperishable Crown1Co 9:24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 1Co 9:25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 1Co 9:26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats

the air. 1Co 9:27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

-disqualified (adokimos/96): to not be approved, to not pass the test, unfit-Heb 6:8

*The background for this crown is the athletic games held at Corinth. The illustration that Paul is using is of that of an athlete who needs to exercise self-control in order to train his body to win the crown/victor’s wreath given to the winner. For the believer, the Lord has provided what is needed for him/her to walk in victory over the sin nature which resides in their body through the work of Christ (know, reckon, yield of Romans 6) and the fruit of the Spirit which includes self-control. All that is required on our part is to walk by grace through faith. To those who do , they will be rewarded with the imperishable crown. To those who choose not to, they will be as the athlete who is disqualified from competing in their athletic event. They will not lose their salvation, but the opportunity to receive this reward (see also 2 Timothy 2:1-5).

B. Crown of Rejoicing

12

1Th 2:19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? 1Th 2:20 For you are our glory and joy.

*Here Paul is referring to the Thessalonian believers as his crown of rejoicing when they will be together in the presence of our Lord when He comes back for the Church. Commentators state that this crown is given to those who have led people to salvation through the giving of the gospel. I would argue that it represents more than that. It would also include those who pray for the salvation of others and those who support those individuals/groups that do spread the gospel.

C. Crown of Righteousness

2Ti 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2Ti 4:8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

*This crown is given to those believers who are living in the light of Christ’s return as the bride is anxiously waiting for her groom to come retrieve her (2 Corinthians 11:2). Too many believers have become distracted by the world and its system and are living by sight, not by faith. This crown will be given to those whose mindset is not of those who entrenched in this world, but to those who are living in wonderful anticipation of seeing their Lord and Savior face to face and who understands that their citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:17-21/1 Peter 1:1, 13; 2:11).*Notice how Christ is portrayed. It is not as the suffering one, the Shepherd or even our Advocate (defense lawyer), but as our Judge (see Revelation 1:12-16).

D. Crown of life

Jas 1:12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

*endures (hupomeno/5278): to remain under and not to flee*temptation (peirasmos/3986): proving; trial*approved (dokimos/1384): pleasing, accepted

Rev 2:10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

*The crown of life, also known as the sufferer’s or martyr’s crown, covers two scenarios:

1) The believer who remains under during times of trials/suffering to the point where

He is approved of the Lord;2) Those believers who suffer until death

13

The term crown of life is emphazing eternal life, that quality of life which every believer has been given through Jesus Christ. Here it represents the crown given to those believers who have chosen to embrace that life through times of suffering, even to the point of death.

E. Crown of Glory1Pe 5:2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 1Pe 5:3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 1Pe 5:4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

*Shepherd (poimaino/4165): to tend as sheep (John 20:16; Acts 20:28)*overseers (episkospeo/1983): to look after, to care for*compulsion (anagkastos/317): by force*willingly (hekousios/1596): voluntarily, by one’s own accord*eagerly (prothumos/4290: lit. forward spirit; not just willingly, but with zeal*entrusted (kleros/2819): charge, allotment, inheritance*examples (tupos/5179): pattern

*This crown is presented to those who shepherd believers as unto the Lord, following His guidelines. The shepherd is not to exert his will so as to force the sheep to respond, but rather call to them appealing to their free will. It is not to be done for financial gain. But rather the shepherd is to be a pattern for the flock to look to, living out the words that he dispenses.

What will we ultimately do with our crowns?

Rev 4:9 Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever,

Rev 4:10 the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying:

Rev 4:11 "You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created."

II. Reigning with Christ

2Ti 2:11 This is a faithful saying: For if we died with Him, We shall also live with Him. 2Ti 2:12 If we endure, We shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny

us. 2Ti 2:13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.

-endure: to remain under; to suffer, to bear under trials and ill treatment-present active indicative

-shall reign: to reign together with-future active indicative

-deny Him: to disavow, to reject-He will deny us: not salvation, but reigning with Him

14

To deny Him, based on the context, is to disavow ourselves from the suffering that goes along with standing for His word and His grace. If we refuse to suffer for Him now, He will deny us reigning at the Judgment Seat of Christ.

Rev 20:5 But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

*Another aspect of the believer’s reward in the eternal state is that he will share in Christ’s rule

and reign during the future millennial kingdom. The judgment seat of Christ will be the doorway to rulership in the millennium…When Christ returns to earth to establish His millennial kingdom, Christians who have been faithful in this life will share in His reign with Him and given positions of authority in the kingdom (The Judgment Seat of Christ; Samuel L. Hoyt)

Rev 22:1 And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.

Rev 22:2 In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

Rev 22:3 And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him.

Rev 22:4 They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. Rev 22:5 There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the

Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. -serve: to officiate as priests-reign forever and ever

The believer has been made a king and a priest (Rev. 1:6), not only to reign during

the millennial kingdom, but into eternity as well.

III. Praise, Honor and Glory1Pe 1:6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 1Pe 1:7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,

What a magnificent day that will be, when we stand before Him who is our judge, and before all the believers that comprise the Church from its beginning at Pentecost to the Rapture, He bestows praise, honor and glory on us, simply because we responded to His wonderful grace?

IV. Abundant Entrance

15

2Pe 1:10 Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 2Pe 1:11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

*diligent: to make effort, to make haste (no time to waste)*call: invitation (response to an invite)*election: to pick out, choose, the decree made from choice by which he determined to bless certain persons through Christ by grace alone (participation in God’s eternal plan)

-notice that the response to the invitation comes first, then the election*sure: stable, firm*stumble (patio/4417); fall, fall into misery*entrance: the act of entering; to enter into (Hebrews 10:19)*supplied: furnish*abundantly: richly (Titus 3:6)*everlasting kingdom: most likely referring to the eternal kingdom, not the

millennial kingdom

1:10 We cannot make our call and election more sure than they already are; God's eternal purposes can never be thwarted. But we can confirm them by growing in likeness to the Lord. By manifesting the fruit of the Spirit, we can provide unmistakable evidence that we truly belong to Him. A holy life proves the reality of our salvation. Living a holy life will keep us from stumbling. It is not a question of falling into eternal perdition; the work of Christ delivers us from that. Rather, it refers to falling into sin, disgrace, or disuse. If we fail to progress in divine things, we are in danger of wrecking our lives. But if we walk in the Spirit, we will be spared from being disqualified for His service. God guards the Christian who moves forward for Him. The peril lies in spiritual idleness and blindness.1:11 Not only is there safety in constant spiritual progress, there is also the promise of a richly-provided entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Peter refers here not to the fact of our entry but to the manner of it. The only basis of admission to the heavenly kingdom is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. But some will have a more abundant entrance than others. There will be degrees of reward. And the rewards are here said to depend on the degree of one's conformity to the Savior. (Believer’s Bible Commentary; William MacDonald)

The Believer’s Righteous Acts and the Marriage Supper of the Lamb

Rev 19:7 Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready."

16

Rev 19:8 And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints. Rev 19:9 Then he said to me, "Write: 'Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!' " And he said to me, "These are the true sayings of God."

-made herself ready: prepared herself-aorist active indicative

-granted: bestowed-arrayed: to be clothed-righteous acts: the accumulative good works of the believers of the Church which have passed the test of the fire of the Judgment Seat of Christ.

In Scripture, marriage is often used to describe the relationship of saints to God. In the Old Testament Israel is pictured, as in Hosea, as the unfaithful wife of Yahweh who is destined to be restored in the future kingdom. In the New Testament, marriage is also used to describe the relationship between Christ and the church, but the illustration contrasts with the Old Testament, for the church is regarded as a virgin bride waiting the coming of her heavenly bridegroom (2Co_11:2).

The fine linen with which the bride will be adorned is explained as representing the righteous acts of the saints (Rev_19:8). (In the OT the high priest’s clothing included linen: Exo_28:42; Lev_6:10; Lev_16:4, Lev_16:23, Lev_16:32.) While some think this refers to the fact that the saints are justified by faith, the plural expression “the righteous acts” seems to refer to the righteous deeds wrought by the saints through the grace of God. Though all this has been made possible by the grace of God, the emphasis here seems to be on the works of the bride rather than on her standing as one who has been justified by faith. (Bible Knowledge Commentary)

Rev 19:11 Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. Rev 19:12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. Rev 19:13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. Rev 19:14 And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses.

17

Laboring

*labor (kopaio/2872): to grow, weary, tired, exhausted; to labor with wearisome effort

Rom 16:12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord.

1Co 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

Col 1:27 To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Col 1:28 Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.

Col 1:29 To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.

1Ti 4:9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance. 1Ti 4:10 For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living

God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.

*labor (kopos/2873): intense labor united with trouble and toil

1Co 3:8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor.

*reward (misthos/3408): dues paid for work, used of the fruit naturally resulting from toils and endeavors; of the rewards God will bestow

1Co 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1Co 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding

in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

1Th 1:2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, 1Th 1:3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of

hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father,

1Th 2:7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.

1Th 2:8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.

1Th 2:9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God.

Heb 6:10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

Rev 2:1 "To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, 'These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands:

18

Rev 2:2 "I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars;

Rev 2:3 and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary.

Rev 2:4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.

-Though we are labor, we must never lose sight that it is His love which is to be our motivation for that labor.

What the Gospels say about Rewards?

While we understand that the Gospels are not written directly to the Church, Christ’s words to His disciples are worth gleaning for the principles on rewards and stewardship that we will find useful for our walk.

Persecution for the Lord’s sake brings rewardsLuk 6:22 Blessed are you when men hate you, And when they exclude you, And revile you, and cast out your name as evil, For the Son of Man's sake. Luk 6:23 Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven, For in like manner their fathers did to the prophets.

-Notice that it is not just suffering, but suffering for the Son of Man’s sake, being associated with Him and His message.

2Ti 3:10 But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance,

2Ti 3:11 persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me.

2Ti 3:12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

Luk 6:35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.

*see 1 Peter 2:21-25 for the example of Christ in suffering

Watching and each to his own workMar 13:33 Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is.

*watch (agrupneo/69): to be sleepless, keep awake, attentive, ready (Eph. 6:18; Heb. 13:17)

Mar 13:34 It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch.

*watch (gregoreuo/1127): to give strict attention to;1Co 16:13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.

1Th 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1Th 5:7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at

night. 1Th 5:8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith

and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.

19

Mar 13:35 Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— Mar 13:36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. Mar 13:37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!"

Luk 12:35 "Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; Luk 12:36 and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Luk 12:37 Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them. Luk 12:38 And if he should come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. Luk 12:39 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Luk 12:40 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." Luk 12:41 Then Peter said to Him, "Lord, do You speak this parable only to us, or to all people?" Luk 12:42 And the Lord said, "Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Luk 12:43 Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Luk 12:44 Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has.

Both of these portions emphasis the need to be spiritually awake and ready for when our Lord returns. This truth exposes the challenge that we as believers face to not live as the unbeliever lives: day to day, living for the temporary and not looking past this life into eternity. This would go hand in hand with the truth that Peter presents to us as strangers and pilgrims; temporary residents with our eyes on our eternal home.

No work is insignificantMar 9:41 For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.

There is no work too small that the Lord will not reward. Man evaluates by how large a work is, God does not.

Support of those who are laboring brings rewardsMat 10:40 "He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me. Mat 10:41 He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.

The Lord will reward those who support those who labor. Epaphras was a believer who labored in prayer for the believers at Colosse:

Col 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

20

Parable of the LaborersMat 20:1 "For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. Mat 20:2 Now when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. Mat 20:3 And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, Mat 20:4 and said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you.' So they went. Mat 20:5 Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did likewise. Mat 20:6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle, and said to them, 'Why have you been standing here idle all day?' Mat 20:7 They said to him, 'Because no one hired us.' He said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right you will receive.' Mat 20:8 "So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, 'Call the laborers and give them their wages, beginning with the last to the first.' Mat 20:9 And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. Mat 20:10 But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. Mat 20:11 And when they had received it, they complained against the landowner, Mat 20:12 saying, 'These last men have worked only one hour, and you made them equal to us who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.' Mat 20:13 But he answered one of them and said, 'Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? Mat 20:14 Take what is yours and go your way. I wish to give to this last man the same as to you. Mat 20:15 Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?' Mat 20:16 So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen."

21

In the previous verses (19:27-30), Christ declares that the 12 will sit on 12 thrones and judge (preside over) the 12 tribes of Israel in the regeneration (the millennium) and that God’s rewards will make up for our current standing (last shall be first).

This parable illustrates a landowner who hires laborers throughout the day, but ends up paying them the same wage regardless of when the worker started. By this, Christ is explaining that He is sovereign in the area of rewards, and will payout based on what He determines what is right, not man. This parable also explains that there is equal pay though the opportunities are not always equal. Not everyone has been saved the same length of time or is provided with the same opportunities in service.

By this illustration, Jesus was teaching that the matter of rewards is under the sovereign control of God, the “Landowner” in the parable. God is the One before whom all accounts will be settled. Many who have prominent places will someday find themselves demoted. And many who often find themselves at the end of the line will find themselves promoted to the head of the line: The last will be first, and the first will be last. (This supports what Jesus had said in Mat_19:28-30.) In the final accounting, the Lord’s analysis will carry the greatest and only important weight (Bible Knowledge Commentary)

Parable of the TalentsMat 25:14 "For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. Mat 25:15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. Mat 25:16 Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. Mat 25:17 And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. Mat 25:18 But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money. Mat 25:19 After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them. Mat 25:20 "So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.' Mat 25:21 His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' Mat 25:22 He also who had received two talents came and said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.' Mat 25:23 His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' Mat 25:24 "Then he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. Mat 25:25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.' Mat 25:26 "But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. Mat 25:27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. Mat 25:28 So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. Mat 25:29 'For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.

*talent: sum of money based on weight

22

The context of this parable is the time during Christ’s absence and His earthly return for Israel when He comes to establish His 1000 year reign. Here you have servants that are given different amounts based on their abilities. The one given five talents doubled his amount as did the one given two. Both are praised as “good and faithful” servants and given ruler ship (to appoint one to administer an office) over many things. The unfaithful servant did nothing with what has given to him indicating his unbelief. The lesson here is that of faithfulness of a servant regardless of what they have been entrusted with. Based on verses 28-29, the possible meaning is that rewards meant for us will be given to others

if we waste our time and opportunities down here.

Parable of the PoundsLuk 19:11 Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately. Luk 19:12 Therefore He said: "A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. Luk 19:13 So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, 'Do business till I come.' Luk 19:14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, 'We will not have this man to reign over us.' Luk 19:15 "And so it was that when he returned, having received the kingdom, he then commanded these servants, to whom he had given the money, to be called to him, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. Luk 19:16 Then came the first, saying, 'Master, your mina has earned ten minas.' Luk 19:17 And he said to him, 'Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.' Luk 19:18 And the second came, saying, 'Master, your mina has earned five minas.' Luk 19:19 Likewise he said to him, 'You also be over five cities.' Luk 19:20 "Then another came, saying, 'Master, here is your mina, which I have kept put away in a handkerchief. Luk 19:21 For I feared you, because you are an austere man. You collect what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.' Luk 19:22 And he said to him, 'Out of your own mouth I will judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I was an austere man, collecting what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow. Luk 19:23 Why then did you not put my money in the bank, that at my coming I might have collected it with interest?' Luk 19:24 "And he said to those who stood by, 'Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has ten minas.' Luk 19:25 (But they said to him, 'Master, he has ten minas.') Luk 19:26 'For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.

This is a different message than the previous parable. Here, you have ten servants each given the same amounts. The first servant produced ten minas (mina is a pound of money), the second two minas each from their one mina. Again the unfaithful servant did nothing and was condemned. The difference between this and the parable of the talents is that each servant is given the same amount but produced different results. As a result, the one servant with ten minas was given authority (power or rule of government, magistrate) over ten cities, the one with five over five cities. The rewards are given in proportion to the servant’s faithfulness. Equal opportunity between servants does not always produce

the same results and the same rewards.

Conclusion

23

In reading on this subject, more than one author has made the comment that the subject of the Judgment Seat of Christ is one that has either been forgotten or ignored; but out of necessity, one that demands being presented. My desire is not to cause fear or paralysis among you, but to look at this in the light of the Word of God. As we study truths regarding our walk, we also need to study the truths regarding our eternal state and the judgment which awaits every believer before our Lord Jesus Christ to give account of ourselves and the evaluation of our works by Him. We need to see the importance not just of that event, but the eternal results that are on the line. And for us to embrace the confidence that He can provide us as we look forward to that day of evaluation in which He will be glorified.

Rev 22:12 "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.

Rev 22:13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last."

2Jn 1:8 Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for, but that we may receive a full reward.

References

Are These the Last Days? /Robert Glenn Gromacki

Believer’s Bible Commentary/William MacDonald

Bible Knowledge Commentary/Dallas Theological Seminary

Great Neglected Bible Prophecies/Merrill F. Unger

Studies in First Corinthians/M. R. DeHaan

Thayer’s Greek Dictionary24

The Judgment Seat of Christ/Samuel L. Hoyt

The Judgment Seat of Christ: An Incentive and a Warning/L. Sale-Harrison

Things to Come; J. Dwight Pentecost

Vine’s Expository Dictionary

Notes

25