Tags: good works in Christ, eternal rewards, labor not in vain, sowing righteousness, Jesus Christ reward
One of the most profound truths in Scripture is the eternal value of living a life devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ. While many pursue fame, fortune, or fleeting pleasures in this present world, the Bible reminds us that what is done for Christ will never be in vain. Our good works, though they may often go unnoticed or even bring persecution here on earth, are never forgotten by God. The day is coming when every believer will stand before the Lord Jesus Christ, and He shall reward every man according to his works.
As believers, we are called not only to faith but also to fruitful service. While salvation is by grace through faith and not of works (Ephesians 2:8–9), it is equally true that we are “created in Christ Jesus unto good works” (Ephesians 2:10). These good works are the spiritual fruits that flow from a life rooted in Christ—acts of love, generosity, faithfulness, sacrifice, and obedience that glorify God and benefit others.
The Lord Will Reward Every Man According to His Works
Jesus Himself declared this powerful truth in Matthew 16:27 (KJV):
“For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.”
This is not a vague promise. It is a definite and glorious reality: the return of Jesus Christ in power and glory, with rewards in His hand. The very One who gave His life for our redemption will also judge and reward our faithfulness.
Similarly, Revelation 22:12 (KJV) says:
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”
The final book of the Bible concludes with this strong reminder: the return of Christ is sure, and He comes as the righteous Judge and Rewarder. Every act done for His name, no matter how small, shall not be overlooked.
Labor Is Not in Vain in the Lord
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul speaks extensively about the resurrection and the hope of eternal life. He concludes the chapter with a powerful exhortation to believers:
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58, KJV)
What an encouraging word! When we serve the Lord—teaching a Sunday School class, witnessing to a neighbor, giving to missions, caring for the poor, or simply being faithful in our daily work—none of it is wasted. God sees every effort and will reward us accordingly. The world may not notice, and even fellow believers might overlook our service, but God never misses a single act done in faith.
A Hundredfold Now and Eternal Life to Come
Jesus gave a special promise to those who suffer loss for His sake. In Mark 10:29–30 (KJV), He said:
“Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.”
What an amazing assurance! Those who give up earthly comforts and relationships for the cause of Christ are promised manifold blessings in this life—along with persecution—and eternal life in the world to come. God does not leave His servants empty-handed. He is a generous Rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
The Judgment Seat of Christ
Every Christian will one day stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ—not to be condemned, for there is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1)—but to be evaluated and rewarded for their works. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:10 (KJV):
“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.”
This divine evaluation should motivate us to live intentionally and righteously. The Apostle Paul likened the Christian life to a race, urging believers to run that they may obtain the prize (1 Corinthians 9:24). He himself lived with his eyes fixed on the eternal crown, declaring in 2 Timothy 4:7–8 (KJV):
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness...”
Crowns and Eternal Rewards
Scripture speaks of various crowns to be given to faithful believers:
- The Crown of Life – for those who endure trials and remain faithful unto death (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10)
- The Incorruptible Crown – for those who discipline themselves in godliness (1 Corinthians 9:25)
- The Crown of Rejoicing – for soulwinners (1 Thessalonians 2:19)
- The Crown of Righteousness – for those who love His appearing (2 Timothy 4:8)
- The Crown of Glory – for faithful shepherds and teachers (1 Peter 5:4)
These crowns are not materialistic trophies but symbols of honor, love, and eternal recognition from the Savior Himself. What could be more rewarding than hearing Jesus say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21, KJV)?
Let Us Not Be Weary
Galatians 6:9 (KJV) offers another beautiful encouragement:
“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
Yes, there are seasons of dryness, discouragement, and difficulty. But the promise remains: in due season, we will reap. God is faithful to bless every righteous seed sown in His name.
Hebrews 6:10 (KJV) echoes this truth:
“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name...”
Conclusion: Sowing with Eternity in Mind
As believers, let us be found sowing seeds of righteousness every day—not for the applause of men or earthly gain, but for the glory of God and the joy of hearing our Master’s approval. May we be steadfast in our service, joyful in our labor, and patient in our waiting.
The day is fast approaching when Christ will return in glory. He will come with His angels, and His reward will be with Him. Let us live each day with eternity in view, sowing in faith, serving in love, and trusting that our labor is not in vain in the Lord.
“Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” – Revelation 22:12 (KJV)
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