Rewards

Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. (NIV, 2010)

 

 

We have found in the Scriptures some truths about the return of Jesus.  It will be a literal, visible, and audible event.  In the words of the Savior, ". . . as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man" (Matthew 24:27, NIV, 2010).  In Revelation 1:7, John quotes a line from Daniel 7:13 about "coming with clouds" and applies it to the Second Coming, writing ". . . Every eye shall see Him. . . ."   It will not be silent.  Jesus said He would ". . .send his angels with a loud trumpet call. . ." (Matthew 24:31, ibid.).  In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul also writes of a trumpet call, along with a shout and the voice of an archangel (ch. 4:16).  There will be no confusion about what is happening - the King is coming!

 

Jesus said that rewards will be received when He comes (Matthew 16:27; Revelation 22:12).  Only two classes will be recognized, those who love and serve others, and those who serve only themselves (Matthew 25:31-41).  Only two "rewards" are given.  The reward for all who are becoming like Jesus is an inheritance, a kingdom prepared for us since before Creation (vs.34);  all others will hear the dreadful sentence, "'Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels"  (vs.41). 

 

In a children's Bible class this little motto was recited each week: Be careful of your thoughts, for they become actions; be careful of your actions, for they become habits; be careful what habits you form, for habits become character - and your character shapes your destiny.  I pray that our thoughts, our choices may daily demonstrate a growing love for the the One "who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began" (II Timothy 1:9, NKJV).

 

Philippians 1:6   I am confident that He who has begun a good work in you will continue that work until the day of Jesus Christ.