Wherefore we labour Φιλοτιμουμεθα, we are ambitious, (the only ambition which has place in a Christian,) that, whether present in the body, or absent from it, we may be accepted of him Ευαρεστοι αυτω ειναι, to be well-pleasing to him, or to receive the tokens of his favour and approbation. For we must all Apostles as well as other men, whether now present in the body, or absent from it; appear Openly, without covering; before the judgment-seat of Christ Where all hidden things will be revealed, probably the sins even of the faithful, which were forgiven long before: for many of their good works (their humiliation, contrition, godly sorrow, striving against sin, mortification of it) cannot otherwise appear; but this will be done at their own desire, without grief and shame; that every one may receive the things That is, the due reward of the things; done in his body, whether good or bad In full proportion to his actions, and the secret springs thereof, which will then be all laid open; and according to the principles from which the Searcher of hearts knows his actions to have proceeded. Some read the latter clause, that every one may receive in the body, (namely, in his body raised,) according to what he hath done. That is, as in the body he did either good or evil, so the body being raised, he is recompensed therein accordingly.
Related Commentaries of 2 Corinthians 5:9
2 Corinthians 5:9-10
9 Wherefore we labour,a that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.