For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 2 Corinthians 5:10
“Now the just, who will receive the words of the most equitable Judge, have indeed done many good works, but while they lived in the world they did not act with fullness of perfection, and therefore their deeds must now be judged. And the unjust, who will suffer a severe judgment against them, have
indeed done much evil; but they did not act in ignorance of the Divine Majesty, in the wicked unbelief that would damn them without judgment. And so they will not escape the Judge’s sentence, for all things must be weighed equitably.”
Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) in Scivias (Mahwah: Paulist Press, 1990) 402.
What is needful in the thinking of Hildegard is to prepare to be judged. Are you ready to meet Jesus? You can’t slip into heaven like you slip into a service in the back row at church.
At the Judgment Seat of Christ, believers will give an account of their lives. Why must we all appear? This is not a judgment for salvation or condemnation, but for rewards.
Christ will evaluate their motives, actions, and faithfulness. Errant deeds are burned away, while faithful service receives eternal crowns and divine commendation.
Regardless of what everyone else it is doing, it is needful to aim at the fullness of perfection or maturity. You will be glad you did when you meet the most equitable Judge.