Rewards

Christians are called to live in this world, but by the rules of another world. God is working on us and through us. A trial is an external testing of faith, and a temptation is an internal testing of faith. A man is blessed when he faces trials of many kinds. The Bible says we will receive many kinds of rewards and crowns in heaven. This message highlights some of those.

WHERE FAITH MEETS LIFE
A Study on James
Rewards
Pastor Mark Johnson
January 31st 2010
 
James 1:12
1 Samuel 17:25-26
 
We have been talking about living in this world, but by the rules of another world.
 
Recognize that God is working on us and through us.
 
James is specifically talking to us about the trials of life.
  1. Trial = External trial of faith.
  2. Temptation = Internal temptation to Sin.
 
Let’s break this verse down a little and learn what we can.
 
   I.      There is a man who is going to be blessed.
 
makarios = fortunate
 
 I.       
 II.      Fortunate is the man who perseveres.
 
The word persevere here means - to continue in an activity or state despite resistance and opposition - to continue, to remain, or to endure.
 
  1.  
  2.  
  3. James is telling us the man who continues in the faith while facing the opposition of trials and temptations is fortunate.
 
Why?
 
He will receive a Crown of Life. What is this and where and when do I get it?
 
  1. Understanding what happens when we stand before God.
 
There is a common misconception that there is one judgment.
 
  1. The Judgment Seat of Christ.
 
2 Corinthians 5:10
1 Corinthians 3:12-15
 
This happens after the Rapture and before the final return of Christ to rule and reign on the earth.  
 
1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
 
  • The Crown of Rejoicing is the soul winner’s crown.   
 
2 Timothy 4:7-8
 
  • The Crown of Righteousness is for those who finish the race and have done the things expected. 
 
1 Peter 5:1-4
  • The Crown of Glory is for pastors and elders who have conducted themselves as good shepherds.
 
James 1:12
 
  1. The Great White Throne Judgment
 
Revelation 20:11-15
Titus 3:4-5

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