Which One are You?

In Sunday School recently we were discussing the final judgement. In 2nd Corinthians the apostle, Paul says:

“For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” 2 Corinthians 5:10

Then we pondered this question. If we are saved only through the atonement of Christ, not because of our good works, then what will our “reward” be? We decided that although our good behavior doesn’t save us, it is God’s will that we progress in our sanctification — remember the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30)? The master commends the servants who used what He had given them to produce more. That simple phrase — “well done, good and faithful servant” was the greatest reward they could receive! It goes right along with the C. S. Lewis quote below:

“I know of three classes of people among those who are being saved: slaves, employees, and sons. If you are a slave, fear punishment; if you are an employee, look only for wages; if you are more than these — if you are a son–then revere God as Father. Do what is good because it is good to obey a Father. And even if there be no reward for you, it is reward enough to have pleased your Father. Let us take care not to despise these things.”