The "bema seat of Christ" (sometimes also called the "Judgment Seat of Christ" or the "Judgment Seat of Christ") is a theological concept in Christianity referring to a future evaluation or judgment of believers in Christ after the rapture and/or resurrection. It's important to distinguish this from the Great White Throne Judgment, which is reserved for unbelievers.
Here's a breakdown of what it means:
* The Word "Bema": The Greek word "bema" (βῆμα) refers to a raised platform or rostrum from which speakers addressed an audience. In New Testament times, it was often associated with a judgment seat or tribunal, where officials rendered decisions.
* Who is Judged?: This judgment is specifically for believers in Jesus Christ. It is not a judgment to determine *salvation*, as salvation is a free gift received through faith in Jesus Christ. Rather, it's a judgment of *works*, service, and faithfulness after salvation.
* Purpose of the Judgment: The purpose is not to determine *if* a believer goes to heaven, but rather to evaluate the believer's life, service, and faithfulness *since* they came to faith in Christ. The focus is on rewards, commendation, and degrees of glory in eternity.
* Basis of the Judgment: The judgment is based on:
* Motives: The underlying reasons for actions are scrutinized. Were they done out of genuine love for God and others, or for selfish gain?
* Works: The quality and impact of actions done in service to Christ are evaluated.
* Faithfulness: How well did the believer use the gifts, talents, and opportunities given to them by God?
* Sacrifice: To what extent were they willing to suffer loss, endure hardship, or sacrifice for the cause of Christ?
* Result of the Judgment: The result is not condemnation for believers. Rather, it's the distribution of rewards and recognition for faithful service. Rewards can include:
* Crowns: Scripture mentions several crowns (e.g., the crown of righteousness, the crown of life, the crown of glory) given to those who have been faithful in specific areas.
* Positions of Authority: Some believe that believers may be given positions of responsibility and leadership in the eternal kingdom based on their faithfulness on earth.
* Intimacy with Christ: Deeper fellowship and communion with Christ may be a reward for those who have demonstrated great love and devotion.
* Key Scripture References:
* 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."
* Romans 14:10-12: "You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat...So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God."
* 1 Corinthians 3:10-15: Paul uses the analogy of building with gold, silver, and costly stones versus wood, hay, and straw to illustrate the lasting and temporary value of different kinds of works.
* 1 Corinthians 4:5: "Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God."
* Important Distinctions:
* Bema Seat of Christ vs. Great White Throne Judgment: The Bema Seat is for believers, focusing on rewards. The Great White Throne Judgment (Revelation 20:11-15) is for unbelievers, focusing on judgment and condemnation.
* Salvation vs. Rewards: Salvation is a free gift received through faith. Rewards are earned based on our works and faithfulness after salvation.
In summary, the Bema Seat of Christ is a future event where believers will be evaluated for their lives, service, and faithfulness after salvation. It is not a judgment to determine salvation but to award rewards and determine levels of glory in the eternal kingdom.