The Judgment Seat and the Value of Our Works

JEFF TURNER

In 2 Corinthians 5:10, Paul teaches that every believer will stand before the judgment seat of Christ to be repaid for what was done in life, whether good or bad. This does not mean Christians will face God’s punishment. Scripture is clear that Jesus took the full penalty for sin through his death, bearing the judgment we deserved. Consider Romans 8:1 says, “Therefore there is now no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

The word “bad” in this passage comes from a term meaning useless or without value. At this future judgment, worthless deeds, those with no eternal importance, will be set aside. These are not sinful acts, but activities that hold no lasting spiritual impact.

What will remain are the righteous works God has produced in us. These will form the basis of our eternal reward. This truth calls believers to focus on what matters for eternity, investing time and effort in works that honour Christ rather than in things that will pass away.

…each one’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each one’s work. If anyone’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward.

1 Corinthians 3:13–14

The Certain Return of Christ and the Call to Prepare

AMY TURNER

The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus Christ will one day return to the earth. Revelation 1:7 tells us that he will come with the clouds, and every person will see him — including those responsible for his death. People from every nation will mourn when this happens because it will mark the moment of final judgement.

This event will be public and undeniable. Christ will not return in secret or as a distant idea. His coming will be visible and real, and it will affect every human being. No one will be able to avoid this moment. We’re told in 2 Corinthians 5:10, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.”

Doesn’t knowing this truth call for a serious response from each of us?

because He has set a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all people by raising Him from the dead.”

Acts 17:31