“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” (2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV).

The Bible speaks of a reward ceremony that will take place in Paradise immediately after the rapture of the church. This event is called the judgment seat of Christ. The Greek word translated judgment is bēma – the bēma seat judgement. This is not a trial to ascertain whether we are innocent or guilty, saved or lost. That judgment occurs during our lifetime.

The bēma judgment is about recognition. Salvation is based on the work of Christ for us. Our recognition is based on our work for him. Our deeds do not contribute to our salvation. Our deeds do, however, inform our reward.

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