The Judgment Seat of Christ

By Erwin Lutzer, Th.M., L.L.D., D.D.
Senior Pastor, Moody Church, Chicago, Illinois

The Judgment Seat of Christ is often called the bema, the Greek word translated “judgment seat” in 2 Corinthians 5.10, and in early times referred to a raised platform where speeches were given and crowns were awarded to the winners of athletic contests.

The bema of Christ, which dwarfs all other tribunals, is not a judgment determining salvation for here only Christians shall be called into account before the all-knowing Judge. This event must be distinguished from the Great White Throne Judgment, to which only unbelievers of all eras shall be summoned: Revelation 20.11-15. The two judgments have these similarities: attendance is required and all facts will be taken into consideration; thus, all participants will agree God acts with wisdom and meticulous justice.

At the Judgment Seat of Christ, He Who died to save us will stand to judge us. The terms of this judgment are detailed in 1 Corinthians 3.9-15, indicating “every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it because it shall be revealed by fire.” After Paul says “every (Christian shall) receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad,” he adds, “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men,” 2 Corinthians 5.10,11. Our Savior and Brother will administer that which is right and just, and He will not wink at our disobedience.

Theologically, a difficulty is posed by this judgment: since all believers are “in Christ” and have been declared legally righteous in God’s sight, how can we be judged “for the things done in (the) body…whether…good or bad”? Some theologians thereby conclude all believers will hear, “Well done,” from the lips of Christ. These people believe the judgment, at most, may result in a loss of some potential rewards, but will make no distinction between the faithful and the unfaithful. This view is often connected with the teaching all Christians are overcomers who will persevere in faithfulness. Thus, proponents of this view believe the judgment seat is primarily a time of affirmation, not rebuke, nor serious loss of rewards.

However, if we take Paul’s words quoted above at face value, we must face the possibility of a serious rebuke by Christ and a loss of rewards or privileges. John warned we should live so we will not “be ashamed before Him at His coming,” 1 John 2.28. The fact God disciplines His children in this life is proof we will not be able to hide behind our justification to escape a thorough judicial review.

Paul reminded slaves to serve their masters as they would Christ, “knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance.” Then he adds, “But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done; and there is no respect of persons,” Colossians 3.24,25. Those who are faithful will have the privilege of ruling with Christ, Revelation 3.21; those who are not will be rebuked and given lesser responsibilities. This does not mean there will be two classes of people in Heaven for despite these distinctions, all will enjoy the eternal state and contribute to the honor and praise of our Lord.