There are enough award ceremonies to last every day of the year! We are into award but there are also awards in Heaven that put them all to shame. The idea of awards is simply stated in the Bible and is never defended. The early Church believed in future awards and it was part of their motivation to serve God.  The number of scripture verses is many such as Psalm 58:11; 62:12; Matthew 5:11-12; Mark 9:41; 10:29-30; Luke 18:29-30; Hebrews 6:10 and Revelation 22:12.

1. The Day of Heaven’s awards

The resurrection of all believers to be with God will be the time that God will judge believers and they will receive rewards. See Romans 14:12; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10 and Ephesians 6:8. This judgment day will see through the exterior and judge our inner motives so that only good works remain. It is not for our salvation but for good works done in the name of the Lord.

2. The Distinction of Heaven’s Rewards

It is an error to teach that we are judged to determine our entrance to Heaven. See Galatians 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:3; 1 John 2:12 and Romans 8:1. Our sins are forgiven if we trust in Jesus. We are saved. We do not face our past, present or future sins. God does not look at time like we do. We will be rewarded for our service. Forgiveness id for justification. There are works that we do because we are saved. See Ephesians 2:8-10. Ananias and Sapphira started out alright but went away shortly. All believers have to give an account. See 1 Corinthians 4:5. We are not to judge other true believers.

3. The Description of Heaven’s Awards

There are five crowns that are mentioned.

• The Victor’s Crown – See 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. There was ancient athletic events at the Olympic Games and Isthmian Games that required a lot of training but yet there was only one winner. It is service that brings rewards. To get the reward that is eternal and incorruptible you have to say “No” to some things if you are going to succeed. In the world today,  you need to turn off the TV so you can go and visit people. The body needs to be disciplined if it is going to win. Does your body tell you what to do?! A successful athlete tells the body what to do. They push the limits and sacrifice things to get better. They have to watch what they eat. We need to be in training if we are going to succeed.
• The Crown of Rejoicing – 2 Timothy 4:8. There are those who have a longing for Jesus to come back. They have endured much in this life. They have their hearts set on Heaven.
• The Crown of Life – James 1:12; Revelation 2:10. This is given in recognition of those having overcome trials, temptations, persecution and even death. There are those who are going through great suffering in the name of Jesus.
• The Crown of Glory – See 1 Peter 5:4. This reward is for those who are faithful shepherds of those in leadership and preaching God’s Word.

Is this an exhaustive list of heavenly awards that will be given out? Who knows! If you are a Christian then you will be at the Judgement Seat of Christ. It is far better to be at this judgment as rewards are being handed out. The Great White Throne Judgment will be for those who are not Christians and there is punishment being handed out!

4. The difference Heaven’s rewards can make

• The Lord Himself is your chief reward. See Genesis 15:1. This is the main thing!
• Resist doing outward works for the purpose of receiving a reward. See Matthew 6:1-4. Don’t posture and spin. You serve the Lord because you love Him. You do it for Him and not the reward.
• Reflect upon the ultimate goal of any awards we may receive. See Revelation 4:10-11. After the rewards we will see Jesus and hand any awards back. It is the only gift that we will have to give. Make sure you have something to hand back. He will wipe away our tears!

It is rewarding to serve Christ but the rewards are not given out here as you are not home yet!

Categories: New Testament