The Promise of Heaven by David Jeremiah
Week 7: Chapters 20–22 — Rewards, Judgment, and the Bema Seat
Read Chapters 20–22 of The Promise of Heaven. Key passages: 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 14:10-12.
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Many Christians are surprised to learn that Scripture speaks of rewards in heaven — not as a way of earning salvation, but as God's joyful honoring of faithful lives. This week we explore what that means and why it matters now.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Dr. Jeremiah explains that every believer will stand before the 'bema seat' of Christ — the judgment seat described in 2 Corinthians 5:10. He is careful to distinguish this from the Great White Throne judgment of Revelation 20. What is the difference between these two judgments, and why does the distinction matter for how Christians understand their future?
2.Paul's image in 1 Corinthians 3 of building with gold, silver, and precious stones versus wood, hay, and straw is striking. What kinds of activities, attitudes, and motivations does Dr. Jeremiah suggest correspond to each category? How does that sorting challenge the way you currently invest your time and energy?
3.The bema judgment is described as a review of deeds done 'in the body' — a kind of accounting for how we lived. Dr. Jeremiah says this should motivate us without producing fear, because our standing before God is secure in Christ. How do you hold those two truths together — security in grace and accountability for faithfulness?
a.Is your honest reaction to the idea of the bema seat more motivating or more anxiety-producing? What does that reaction reveal?
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