Rewards That Last

Posted on Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 02:43 PM

Thank You Jesus For Everything!

 Rewards That Last
 The two greatest enemies of Christian service, selfishness and laziness, have robbed many of God’s children of rewards they should have received. Don’t let these enemies overcome you lest you become a victim of the judgment of loss [Corinthians 3:15].
 What kinds of rewards will we who are Christians receive when we are judged? In Scripture we find mention of five different crowns reserved for those who are faithful to do God’s work.  

Incorruptible Crown. This crown, often called “the victor’s crown,” is conferred upon those who “ keep under [their] body, and bring it into subjection” [1 Corinthians 9:27 KJV]. That is, those who have purged themselves from the inducements and pleasures of the world in order to be profitable service for the Lord Jesus Christ merit this crown.
Crown of Life. Often called “the martyr’s crown” or “ the sufferer’s crown,” this reward will rectify the many injustices Christians suffer in life. Those who have suffered much yet endured with a sweet Christian spirit will be given the “ crown of life.” the crown is also a special reward for those who have been “faithful unto death” as a witness for Christ [ Revelation 2:10 KJV]
Crown of Glory. This is often called “the shepherd’s crown” or “the pastor’s crown.” It is reserved for those who have given their lives to the teaching of the Word of God [1 Peter 5:1,4]
Crown of Righteousness. A special crown is reserved for those Christians who, inspired by the imminent return of Christ, have lived a very righteous and holy life. God does not demand talented vessels for His service. In fact, we need to remember that what comes from our lives is accomplished by His power, not our skills or talent. He simply lays down one major requirement: that a Christian be clean. Somehow the doctrine of the imminent return of Christ has a purifying effect upon the believer [Titus 2:12-14; 1 John 3-2-3].
Crown of Rejoicing. Often referred to as “ the soul winner’s crown.” this crown is reserved for those who have devoted their primary attention to the salvation of lost souls. Often this service is rendered obscurely, unknown to other Christians. Those unsung heroes and all those who have given themselves to winning people to Christ will receive this crown. [ 1 Thessalonians 2-19].
 Crowns are a symbol of authority. As such, they denote the authority that will be granted to Christians during the Millennial period when they reign with Christ for 1000 years. Now, Christians will not be running around with one or more crowns up their heads any more than the Queen of England wears a crown all the time. The fact that she is the queen entitles her to wear the crown, which gives her the authority to exercise her queenly prerogatives.
 So it will be with believers during the Millennium Christians are now earning their position of service for Christ during the Millennium. Knowing this should give us incentive to pursue better and more lasting heights of Christian service here on earth!

I enjoyed this study and truly found that it is a treasure that most know nothing about. Thank You Father for leding in your truths.

Have a blessed weekend everyone, rilda