1 Corinthians 3 - 9.29.26

SCRIPTURE:  1 Corinthians 3:7 - 9

“Neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, Who makes things grow.  The one’s who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.  For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”

OBSERVATION:  Though Paul had planted the seed of God’s Word that first gave birth to the church in Corinth, he recognized Apollo’s as the leader who followed him and watered the seed.  Both of them together were equal in Christ, even though they had different gifts and abilities.  Each will receive his own reward according to his own labor.

APPLICATION:  Yes, we will receive rewards in heaven!  These rewards will be in the form of crowns:

THE CROWN OF LIFE will be rewarded to those who glorified Jesus through suffering. 

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12

THE CROWN OF REJOICING will be rewarded to those who have remained strong in the Lord by imitating Christ.

“For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when He comes”. 1Thessalonians 2:19/ Philippians 4:1

THE UNFADING CROWN will be given to those who denied the flesh.

“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.  They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”  1 Corinthians 9:25-27

THE CROWN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS will be awarded to those who lived daily for Christ’s return. 

“ 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 me, but also to all who longed for His appearing.”  2 Timothy 4:8

THE CROWN OF GLORY will be rewarded to those who shepherded Christ’s flock. 

“…Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.  And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” 1 Peter 5:3,4

PRAYER:  Thank you Lord that you will help me to stay heavenly minded, focussing on You and the eternal rewards that come from following You, more than the temporary rewards here on earth. 
Rewards don’t always come in this life, but thank You Lord for promising those who follow You that our best rewards await us in eternity. 

- Robin Orefice