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Judgment Seat

Summary

An elevated platform or tribunal where judges sat to render decisions; used in Scripture for the seat of Roman governors and metaphorically for the final judgment of Christ.

☩Usage in Scripture

The Greek word bema (meaning 'a step' or 'raised platform') is translated 'judgment seat' in the New Testament. It refers to the elevated tribunal of the Roman governor, as when Pilate sat on the judgment seat to try Jesus (Matthew 27:19; John 19:13), or when Paul appeared before Gallio at Corinth (Acts 18:12, 16-17) or Festus at Caesarea (Acts 25:6, 10, 17). The word is also used for Herod's throne (Acts 12:21). Most significantly, Paul applies it to the final judgment before God (Romans 14:10) and Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10), where all believers must appear to give account.

Key verses:Matthew 27:19Acts 18:12Romans 14:102 Corinthians 5:10

Related Verses11 mentions

Acts· 6 verses

18:1218:1618:1725:625:10

Matthew· 1 verse

27:19

Romans· 1 verse

14:10

John· 1 verse

19:13

References

  1. 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Judgment seat," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IV (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
  2. 2.James Orr (ed.), "Judgment Seat," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. III (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).