2 Corinthians 5:10
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad.
For {G1063} we {G2248} must {G1163} all {G3956} appear {G5319} before {G1715} the judgment seat {G968} of Christ {G5547}; that {G2443} every one {G1538} may receive {G2865} the things done in {G1223} his body {G4983}, according {G4314} to that {G3739} he hath done {G4238}, whether {G1535} it be good {G18} or {G1535} bad {G2556}.
for we must all appear before the Messiah’s court of judgment, where everyone will receive the good or bad consequences of what he did while he was in the body.
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad.
For we must all be made manifest before the judgment-seat of Christ; that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
Cross-References
-
Matthew 16:27 (46 votes)
For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. -
Revelation 22:12 (44 votes)
And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. -
Ecclesiastes 12:14 (39 votes)
For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether [it be] good, or whether [it be] evil. -
Ephesians 6:8 (39 votes)
Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether [he be] bond or free. -
Psalms 62:12 (35 votes)
Also unto thee, O Lord, [belongeth] mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work. -
Romans 2:5 (26 votes)
But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; -
Romans 2:10 (26 votes)
But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:
Commentary
2 Corinthians 5:10 (KJV)
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad.
Commentary
This verse is part of a section where Paul discusses the Christian hope, the transition from earthly life to being with the Lord, and the motivation for living a life pleasing to God.
Historical and Cultural Context: The term "judgment seat" translates the Greek word bema (βῆμα). In the Roman world, a bema was a raised platform or tribunal where officials, like governors or judges, would sit to administer justice, make proclamations, or award prizes in public games. Paul uses this familiar imagery to describe a future event involving believers and Christ.
Key Themes and Messages: The central theme is the accountability of believers before Christ. This is not typically understood as a judgment for salvation (which is by grace through faith), but rather an evaluation of the believer's life and service after salvation. Each individual will stand before Christ to receive consequences or rewards ("receive the things done in his body") based on their actions ("according to that he hath done"). The actions are categorized simply as "good or bad" (in the sense of beneficial/virtuous or worthless/base).
Linguistic Insights: The word bema (βῆμα) suggests an evaluation or reckoning, often associated with receiving results or rewards, rather than solely condemnation. The phrase "receive the things done in his body" implies a receiving back or consequence directly related to the deeds performed during one's earthly life.
Cross-references: This concept is echoed in passages like Romans 14:10-12, which also speaks of believers giving account to God, and 1 Corinthians 3:12-15, which describes a testing of a believer's work by fire, where rewards can be lost, but the believer themselves will be saved.
Practical Application: This verse serves as a powerful motivation for Christians to live intentionally, serving Christ faithfully and striving for actions that are pleasing to Him. It underscores the reality that our lives on earth have eternal significance and that we will be held accountable for how we have lived and used the resources and opportunities given to us.
Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.