Praise From God
"Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God." (I Corinthians 4:5).
This can be kind of scary but we need to see it as a blessing. When Jesus comes again to resurrect the dead we are told that the hidden things and even the motives of the hearts shall be illuminated. Paul was talking to everyone, including believers, so just being "saved" does not prevent this examination. But the examination is not for condemnation or punishment, but for “praise" from God. Sin has been atoned for by the blood of Jesus at the cross so the hidden things and motives that are being judged here are for the purpose of receiving "praise".
I think a lot of Christians will be surprised at what will NOT be praised. I also think Christians will be surprised that some whom they were sure would end up in hell, will be there with them receiving praise from God. No one is wicked 100% of the time.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10)
This can be kind of scary but we need to see it as a blessing. When Jesus comes again to resurrect the dead we are told that the hidden things and even the motives of the hearts shall be illuminated. Paul was talking to everyone, including believers, so just being "saved" does not prevent this examination. But the examination is not for condemnation or punishment, but for “praise" from God. Sin has been atoned for by the blood of Jesus at the cross so the hidden things and motives that are being judged here are for the purpose of receiving "praise".
I think a lot of Christians will be surprised at what will NOT be praised. I also think Christians will be surprised that some whom they were sure would end up in hell, will be there with them receiving praise from God. No one is wicked 100% of the time.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10)