Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the reward of the saints is a central theme in Christian theology, reflecting the ultimate fulfillment and joy that believers anticipate in the presence of God. This hope is not only a future expectation but also a present source of rejoicing and strength for the faithful.Biblical Foundation The New Testament provides numerous references to the rewards awaiting the saints, often described in terms of eternal life, crowns, and heavenly inheritance. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, emphasizes the glory that will be revealed to the saints, stating, "I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18). This future glory serves as a powerful motivator and source of joy for believers enduring trials. In 1 Peter 1:3-4, the apostle Peter speaks of a "living hope" through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, leading to "an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you" . This assurance of an eternal inheritance fuels the rejoicing of the saints, as they are reminded of the certainty and permanence of their reward. The Nature of the Reward The reward of the saints is multifaceted, encompassing both spiritual and eternal dimensions. It includes the promise of eternal life, as Jesus Himself declared, "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for My name’s sake will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life" (Matthew 19:29). This promise underscores the sacrificial nature of discipleship and the abundant recompense awaiting those who faithfully follow Christ. Moreover, the reward is often depicted as a crown, symbolizing victory and honor. Paul, in his letter to Timothy, writes, "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 to all who crave His appearing" (2 Timothy 4:8). This crown of righteousness is a testament to the believer's perseverance and longing for Christ's return. Hope as a Cause of Rejoicing The hope of the reward is a profound source of rejoicing for the saints. In Romans 12:12, Paul exhorts believers to "rejoice in hope, be patient in affliction, be persistent in prayer" . This triad of virtues highlights the sustaining power of hope, which enables believers to endure hardships with joy and anticipation. The book of Hebrews further elaborates on this theme, encouraging believers to look to Jesus, "the author and perfecter of our faith," who "for the joy set before Him endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:2). The joy that Christ anticipated serves as a model for the saints, who likewise find strength and rejoicing in the hope of their future reward. Practical Implications The hope of the reward of the saints has practical implications for daily Christian living. It inspires believers to live holy and obedient lives, as they are reminded of the eternal significance of their actions. In 1 Corinthians 15:58, Paul urges, "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain" . This assurance of meaningful labor encourages the saints to persevere in their faith and service. Furthermore, the anticipation of the reward fosters a spirit of generosity and selflessness. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, teaches, "Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven" (Matthew 5:12). This heavenly perspective empowers believers to endure persecution and to respond with love and grace, knowing that their reward is secure in Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 5:2By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library All Saints' Day Creation's Groans and the Saints' Sighs How Saints May Help the Devil Perseverance of Saints. The General Service to Saints Andrew of Constantinople, Isidore of ... Israel's Hope Encouraged; Abram's Horror of Great Darkness. The Good Man Useful in Life and Happy in Death. The Necessity of Diligently Seeking the Saints' Rest. The Great Misery of those who Lose the Saints' Rest. Resources Does God reward us for being obedient to His Word? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we store up treasures in heaven? | GotQuestions.org Are there different levels of Heaven? Are there three heavens? | GotQuestions.org Reward: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Reward: A Motive to Faithfulness The Reward of Saints is from God The Reward of Saints is Inestimable The Reward of Saints is of God's Good Pleasure The Reward of Saints is of Grace, Through Faith Alone The Reward of Saints is Satisfying The Reward of Saints: A City Which had Foundation The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Glory The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Life The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Righteousness The Reward of Saints: A House Eternal in the Heavens The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom Immovable The Reward of Saints: An Enduring Substance The Reward of Saints: An Eternal Weight of Glory The Reward of Saints: An Incorruptible Crown The Reward of Saints: As Servants of Christ The Reward of Saints: Be Careful not to Lose The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Face of God The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Glory of Christ The Reward of Saints: Being Glorified With Christ The Reward of Saints: Being With Christ The Reward of Saints: Entering Into the Joy of the Lord The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Life The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Light The Reward of Saints: Fulness of Joy The Reward of Saints: Hope of, a Cause of Rejoicing The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Eternal The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Incorruptible The Reward of Saints: Inheritance of all Things The Reward of Saints: Inheritance With Saints in Light The Reward of Saints: Joint Heirship With Christ The Reward of Saints: Not on Account of Their Merits The Reward of Saints: Prepared by Christ The Reward of Saints: Prepared by God The Reward of Saints: Present Afflictions not to be Compared With The Reward of Saints: Reigning for Ever and Ever The Reward of Saints: Reigning With Christ The Reward of Saints: Saints May Feel Confident of The Reward of Saints: Shall be Given at the Second Coming of Christ The Reward of Saints: Shining As the Stars The Reward of Saints: Sitting in Judgment With Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prize of the High Calling of God in Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Diligence The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Enduring Suffering for Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Faithfulness to Death The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Pressing Forward The Reward of Saints: Treasure in Heaven Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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