November 1
The Universal Appearance
at the Judgment Seat
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 us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
Daily Steps
Having understood the magnificent events surrounding The Return of Christ (Day 306), the new believer must acknowledge the sober reality that follows: a day of divine accountability. This verse confirms that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, and our eternal reward will be based on the service and actions of our earthly life.
The peace in this principle is found in purposeful accountability:
The Certainty of Appearance: The word must emphasizes the absolute, universal certainty of this event: we must all appear. There is no exception for any believer. Our focus is not on fear of condemnation (redemption secures our salvation, Day 225), but on the scrutiny of our service (Day 282) and life choices.
The Judge and the Focus: The judge is the judgment seat of Christ. This confirms that the one who died for us is the one who will evaluate us. The focus is on the things done while in the body—our use of time, talent, and resources in carrying out the Call to Mission (Day 274), whether good or bad (wise or foolish, Day 289).
The Purpose is Reward: The ultimate purpose is not to determine salvation, but to receive what is due us—to award various degrees of eternal reward (Day 281) based on faithfulness, diligence (Day 292), and integrity (Day 294). This motivates the believer to constant readiness (Day 305) and maximizing their spiritual productivity.
Your peace is secured by purposeful accountability. Embrace the Hope of the Resurrection today by living in light of Christ’s future evaluation. Let the certainty of receiving your just reward motivate you to choose the "good" path of service and wisdom in everything you do.
Reflective Question
If you were to stand before the judgment seat of Christ today, what is one "thing done while in the body" (service or action) that you would be most grateful to have completed? What is one "bad" action you need to repent of and stop doing immediately?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I confess my carelessness in using the time and gifts You have given me. I thank You for the truth that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ to receive our reward. I pray for the grace and diligence to live every moment in service to You. Secure my peace today in this purposeful accountability, and empower me to choose the good path until the day of Your return. Amen.
