The Master Assizes

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)

When Christ comes again, He will judge me based on my actions in this life.

What will be the outcome of good or bad actions under Christ’s judgment?

For those who don’t accept Christ’s salvation (non-Christians), the result of judgment will be condemnation and eternal punishment.

For Christians, will Christ condemn us for our actions? No! Because through Jesus’ salvation, God sees me as righteous and blameless. So, for Christians, what is the result of judgment?

1 Corinthians 3:13-15 makes it very clear:

“Their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.” (1 Corinthians 3:13-15, NIV)

Christ will evaluate our work, which is to say our actions in this world. Actions that please God will withstand the test of fire, and if the work remains, we’ll receive Christ’s reward. On the flip side, if the actions are bad, one can still be saved, but only as through escaping a fire.

I’ve never had to “escape from a fire,” but I can imagine the danger and pain. Both are forms of salvation, but one is rewarded by Christ, while the other is like escaping through flames—it’s clear which choice is wiser.

But precisely, I have not been wise. At least until this morning, I wasn’t wise.

Foolishness, ignorance, and love for the world have made me want to be a 60-point Christian, just enough to pass. That means just having a “green card” for heaven. Christ’s “extra” rewards are merely added bonuses—I thought I didn’t need them. Pleasing myself in this world seemed more important than pleasing God.

Thank God for His word today, which was a wake-up call for someone as unwise as me. Holding onto a “60-point pass” mindset, a Christian may be saved but “as if escaping through flames.”

Now, pondering what work I have in my hands now. Are what I’m doing, my motives, and attitude pleasing to God? Am I wholeheartedly doing what I should be doing in caring for those I need to care for?

The other day, I listened to “Value” by the well-known Chinese investor Zhang Lei. He mentioned a profound understanding that influenced him: anything that can be burned away is not important, like houses, money, or material wealth. Things that can’t be destroyed by fire are important, summing it up as a person’s knowledge, ability, and values.

I’m not sure if Zhang Lei is a Christian, but his words have a hue of Christian faith.

Thank God:

1. Thank God for His word. Especially the New Testament letters, which bring peace and joy to my heart as I read them. I can’t help but say: this is the truth! I can faintly feel that God’s words are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb.
2. Thank the teachers at the new school. My daughter has basically adapted to the learning environment and pace. I no longer need to tutor her.
3. Thank God’s guidance; my 6-year-old son is now willing to sing hymns. His young voice is bright and clear.