God is Spirit in nature, and so are we as His children. Therefore, our true wealth and achievements are also spiritual; they cannot be measured or perceived using earthly means. Although our acts of service and ministry take place in real time in this physical world, their value can only be measured from the spiritual perspective.

These works only carry weight if they are done according to God’s directive through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. It is possible to achieve much using human wisdom and strength, drawing the attention of others and earning great accolades. However, in the sight of God—where it truly counts—such accomplishments may amount to nothing.

That is why our focus should be on Christ even as we minister on His behalf, ensuring that our work aligns with what the Father is doing and is carried out in faithfulness, as is required of stewards.

The Builder’s Analogy (1 Corinthians 3)

Paul, in 1 Corinthians 3, addresses this very issue by using the analogy of a building. He reminds us that Jesus Christ is the only true foundation upon which we can build. Every believer is a builder, and the materials we use—whether gold, silver, and precious stones or wood, hay, and stubble—represent the nature of our works.

The quality of our service and ministry will ultimately be tested by fire on the Day of Judgment. Works built with enduring materials—those done in obedience to God, empowered by the Spirit, and aligned with Christ—will withstand the fire and receive a reward. However, works built with perishable materials—those done in human strength, for personal gain, or outside God’s will—will be consumed, leaving the worker with nothing.

The Bema Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10)

This aligns with 2 Corinthians 5:10, where Paul declares:

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be paid back according to what he has done while in the body, whether good or evil.”

This Judgment Seat of Christ (Bema Seat) is not about condemnation but about the evaluation of our works. It is a moment when every believer will give an account, and Christ will examine the motives, quality, and faithfulness of our labor. Only what is done in obedience to Him will hold eternal value.

The Eternal Perspective

This sobering truth calls us to examine our motives and ensure that our labor is truly for the glory of God, not merely for human recognition. This glory of God is the one that faithful and obedient believers will radiate.

We see this in Daniel 12:3, where it is written:

“But the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavenly expanse. And those bringing many to righteousness will be like the stars forever and ever.”

This truth calls us to live with eternity in mind, ensuring that our service to God is not just externally impressive but spiritually enduring. What ultimately matters is not the applause of men but the approval of God, who evaluates all things in light of eternity.

– Simon Mbatia