2 Corinthians 5:6-11

Go Deep

(2 Corinthians 5: 6-11)

Read Ps. 98:4-9. Why is all nature called to rejoice because God is coming to judge? Should people also rejoice? Why?

Read 2 Corinthians 5:6-10. Why must we all appear before the judgment seat of Christ? What does it mean to “appear” before the judgment seat?

Can justification based on grace and judgment based on works both be true, and if so, how?

Read the purpose of the judgment of v. 10 (literal translation): “…so that each one may receive the things done through the body according to what he practiced.” What stands out to you?

Some people believe that this judgment is only for the purpose of bestowing positive rewards. Does that fit with the final phrase in the verse? Explain.

Read 2 Cor. 5:11. How is verse 11 connected to verse 10? Are we then to fear the judgment? If not, why not?

Read Revelation 20:11-15. Note anything in the text that stands out to you and think about why it seems important or interesting.

Why in verse 12 does the author mention the dead “great and small”? What point is he trying to make?

“Book” is an important word in this section (and in Revelation as a whole). What is the content of the books in this section (20:11-15)?

What is “the Book of Life?” (See Phil. 4:3; Rev. 3:5; 13:8; 21:27.)

Read Rev. 20:12-13. Literally translated, people will be “judged…according to their works.” So are people saved by works? Explain your answer.

Read Rev. 20:15. If the “lake of fire” is “the second death,” what is the first death?

Isn’t it cruel to throw people into the lake of fire? How could a “loving God” do such a thing?

What is the significance of verse 15?

Provide a biblical response to the following statement: “The God I believe in wouldn’t send anyone to hell eternally but would let everyone into heaven.”